What Are Sides in Acting? 3 Acting Tips for Audition Sides

Sides (also called audition sides, script sides, or acting sides) are pages from a script that casting directors give to actors to to them as part of the audition process for feature films, plays, and television shows. Sides are a portion of the script, typically just a couple of pages culled from one or more scenes. In some cases, sides are original material written for actors to perform in the audition room.

Actors receive sides from a casting office a few days prior to acting auditions or access them online for open calls. In certain situations, such as voice-overs for commercials or non-union productions, the first time the actors have access to the sides is when they appear for the audition. These auditions require the actor to give a “cold reading,” meaning they perform without the benefit of memorization. Most performing unions, such as SAG-AFTRA, oppose cold readings of sides at auditions.

At auditions, professional actors get sides, or portions of a scene, instead of the entire script. Here are a few acting tips to help you rehearse sides:

1. 1. Ask questions. Some acting coaches believe too much preparation takes away from the natural quality of a performance, while others suggest intense preparation makes the audition process easier. Whichever side of the argument you believe, actors should always ask questions about their character’s actions before an audition. For example, inquire about why the character thinks or acts the way they do in the scene and make sure you understand their character arc. Asking questions about the character’s motivation is a good policy for all stages of your acting career.
2. 2. Bring your sides. Even if you memorize your sides, casting directors recommend you bring them with you to the audition.
3. 3. Note the page numbers. Most sides include the scene’s page number in the script unless it’s a scene written specifically for the audition. Noting where the scene falls within the whole script provides valuable information about where the character is on their journey.

Industry opinion splits on whether actors need to memorize sides before an audition. Many professionals prefer actors to read “off-book,” which means they audition from memory, without the aid of the sides in their hands. Others believe sides are more of a help than a hindrance by helping to prevent forgotten lines. Memorization is always a good approach but always bring sides and refer to them if necessary.

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