Help! I Have an Audition – Singing & Acting Audition Coaching in Paris
- Kayla Collingwood
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 30
In Paris and feeling nervous about an upcoming audition?
Whether you're a classical/opera singer, a pop or musical theatre performer, or an actor preparing for your next big opportunity, audition nerves are totally normal! But the good news is that there are strategies to help you put your best foot (and voice!) forward!
Let’s make sure you feel confident, connected, and ready to shine!
About Me
I’m Kayla Collingwood – a classical contralto and music, voice, and stagecraft educator with over a decade of experience helping performers of all ages and backgrounds find confidence through their voices. I hold a Master of Music in Classical Voice, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Theatre Studies.
My approach blends technique, expression and storytelling, and a deep understanding of the performer’s journey. Whether you're preparing for a conservatoire audition, a professional callback, or stepping into a new artistic challenge, I’m here to help you feel prepared and empowered.
Book a Coaching Session
I offer one-off coaching sessions as well as packs of five lessons, designed to support you whether you’ve got weeks to prepare or need a last-minute boost. Regular weekly lessons are also available during term time if you'd like ongoing guidance.
And if you're not in Paris – good news: I teach online too.
What We'll Cover in Lessons
Each session is tailored to you – whether you're preparing a monologue, a song, an aria, or other audition materials. We usually begin with voice and breath work (for both speaking and singing), then move on to polishing your audition materials.
Haven’t chosen your repertoire yet? I can help with repertoire or text selection to ensure your material plays to your strengths.
5 Tips To Help You Nail Your Audition (Even If You Can’t Book a Lesson Right Now)
If you're unable to book a session just yet, here are a few tips that will still help you prepare:
✨ Breathe. Take low, expansive breaths to support your voice and calm your nervous system. Breathe in the emotion of the music or text, but keep the body relaxed. You don’t have to "add" drama – the material already has it. Trust yourself to be a clear, open channel for the story.
🥁 Feel the rhythm. Use your body to connect with the musicality or cadence of your piece. Try egg shakers, clapping, or even a jar of rice to embody the pulse. This grounding helps especially when nerves kick in.
🧭 Block your piece. Practice how you’ll move – where you’ll stand, what your hands and feet are doing, where your eye line goes. This adds clarity to your performance and keeps you present in the space.
🌍 Rehearse in real life. Run your material silently on the métro, while walking through the park, or in a café. This helps integrate the work into your body and helps with memorisation, so it feels familiar and accessible even in unfamiliar settings.
🌿 Take care of you. Hydrate, nourish yourself with good food, rest well, and build in calming rituals (like meditation, gentle stretching, or deep breathing). Remember, auditioning is not about perfection. A perfomer's work is all about process, presence, and the privilege of sharing stories (whether real or ficitional). You’re inviting the panel into your world for a moment. That’s a beautiful thing.
🎶 Ready to book a session – or just want to chat about what you need?
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