Commercial and Theatrical auditions are often quite different in terms of content and acting style. Theatrical auditions refer to those projects that are filmed or video taped for theatrical purposes on television and for films. These may be independent films, tv shows, reality shows, major motion pictures, daytime dramas, or other theatrical projects. The word theatrical does not refer to live theater, stage or plays.
Commercial auditions often refer to industrial films, slide shows, or the commercial for products you see advertised on television or the Internet. There is a separate area of commercial work that is “print” which means stills taken for ads and catalogues. There is also a distinct difference in expectations by the casting panel regarding how these auditions are performed.
The styles of acting are much different in these two mediums. Commercial acting is much broader, more animated and often uses more facial expressions and what is sometimes called “mugging”. It is often a more physical kind of acting. Theatrical acting is more natural, less broad, and more realistic. It can be comedic or dramatic, but again, requires a more natural style. These basic differences are often subtle, but must be learned and mastered.