When auditioning for commercial representation, is it best to have a monologue ready? Or will do they do cold-reads for the most part?

All the commercial agents I've met with either just want to meet with me personally, see a reel, or they have you do a cold read. I haven't had any experience with agents wanting monologues.

Monologues are rare in LA, maybe if you were in New York, it might be a different case.

What about with theatrical agents?
Dont they have you do monologues?
If not, how do they audition you?

From what I know, theatrical agents want actors who are SAG, have substantial credits on their resume, and a reel of their work.

Yes I know

But they only judge your acting from your reel then? No monolouge?

Realistically, I'd guess an awful lot of agents look at your resume first and see if you've booked. I.e., are you a salable product?

Which CD's do you know? Another selling point?

If you do a read at all, there's a good chance it'll be a scene.

This said, I've had people have me do monologues for theatrical, yes. You certainly want two or three ready.

For Theatrical agents Ive always done monologues...

For commercial reps in New York, for the most part, once they decided to meet with you, they want to talk to you to get a feel for you. They may ask for a cold read, but definately not a monologue. For theatrical rep, usually a monologue is in order.

Some theatrical agents will have you bring in a scene.

Most commercial agents will give you copy to read.

In NY, some are monologues (especially if they specialize in theater) but some are scenes. It depends on the agent, really.