Not everyone is suited to a cruise ship job. In this post we’re going to outline the things we look for when we audition our candidates.
We need to be confident that you can perform at the level required. The audition is designed to test your sight reading, technique and knowledge of contemporary styles. On any given week onboard you could be performing everything from big band swing to Broadway and West End material and we need to know you can do it before we represent you to our cruise line partners.
The auditions consist of charts taken from the libraries of the ships we book for, so you’ll be asked to perform exactly the type of thing you’d be playing on the job. Sax players – we’ll need to hear your flute and clarinet chops.
Why is sight reading so important? Because most days you’ll rehearse quickly in the afternoon for that evening’s shows. Getting the charts in advance isn’t usually an option as the entertainers fly on and off within days of the show. As well as being able to sight read the charts, you’ll be expected to perform them with the appropriate style.
We always tell people that if you’ve done lots of different types of gigs on land (theatre, functions, big bands etc.) then you probably have what it takes. If your only musical experience is playing in a covers band where you learned a couple of sets worth of material by ear then our gigs are not for you.
Finally -if you audition with us and you don’t quite make it, we’ll offer some detailed feedback on why and what you could do to be reconsidered in the future.
Beyond the job skills you need, we’re looking for positive, friendly people. There are amazing benefits to the job (like free international travel to some of the nicest places in the world!) but cruise ships can be quite an intense place to work and you’ll be working and living closely with the same people for up to 6 months at a time. If you’re an alcoholic, a drug user, or someone who generally has a difficult time seeing looking on the bright side of life then this gig is not for you! If on the other hand you like people, like travel and are flexible and laid back, get in touch! We’d love to hear from you!