Audition Info & Policy

Auditions for the productions of the Summer Theatre Program (STP) are open to any current 7th-12th grade student (during the auditioning academic year).

We understand that auditions can be difficult, but they are necessary in the performing arts. They are the only way to get an accurate assessment of the performer’s ability and ensure a dynamic and entertaining “chemistry” on the stage.

We encourage students to make their audition entirely their own. Relax, do your best, and be confident in all you do. Making a mistake with gusto is often far more memorable and beneficial than presenting a perfect but timid audition. Don’t forget— your goal is to make sure the directors remember you for the good you bring.

Our Approach

  • We are committed to providing a welcoming and nurturing environment where you can display your God-given talents in a way that all present can appreciate.
  • The audition process begins the moment you walk in the door. The directors will consider all aspects of the time you spend with us, paying particular attention to your ability and desire to be part of the community that is STP.
  • If anyone at any time makes you feel unwelcome, please let an STP team member know about your concern. We will work with you to create the right environment for you.
  • Our goal is to involve as many young people who want to participate in whatever way they can.

Your Audition

Each audition will include at least two parts: a song and a dance.  

Some shows require a third element – reading a scene or scenes. This is not a requirement for every show and not a requirement for every one who auditions. Scene readings may be incorporated into auditions, callbacks, or both, and solely at the discretion of the Director. All readings and parts are assigned by the Director. Unless the Director offers, you will not have the opportunity or ability to request to read for a particular part.

Song

  • You may sing any song you choose. It can be from a musical, a contemporary song, or one of your own.
  • Please limit your vocal audition to about 1 minute or less. We suggest you focus on the part of the song that best showcases your vocal talent. If there are a lot of people to hear sing, you may be asked to limit your audition song. If that is the case, make sure the Directors know the part of the song you want them to hear.
  • Generally speaking, an accompanist is not made available for auditions. This is largely because we want to ensure we can hear you over the accompaniment. If you are uncomfortable signing alone, you may bring your own accompanist or an instrumental (no vocals) recording on your phone. You may not accompany yourself on the piano just because it is too hard to hear well over the instrument.
  • The Music Director may ask you to do a range test as part of your audition. This is usually done for confirmation purposes where your audition song is solidly within your range.

Dance

  • Our choreography team will gather groups of students and teach each group about a 2-minute portion of a dance.
  • You will have the opportunity to rehearse this dance multiple times and to ask questions of the choreography team.
  • After multiple run-thrus, the Choreographer and other members of the directing team will observe the group performing the dance at least once, but often two or three times when there is more than one line.

Preparation Advice

  • Dress casually, but be presentable. Many shows include roles that call for polished, well-mannered characters, and it’s much easier to imagine someone in those roles if they already appear put-together and embody the role. 
  • Dress in a way that allows you to do your best in the dance portion. Be prepared to jump, twirl, kick, crouch, and so on! Wear secure, closed-toe shoes and consider what clothing will give you the freedom of movement you need.
  • When selecting a song, choose one you’re very comfortable singing. Keep in mind that you may be nervous during the audition, and a song you know well will be easier for you to do.
  • If your nerves take over, try to calm yourself. Envision a place where you are most comfortable and give it your all. The directors doing your audition have all been in your position themselves, so they know how it feels!
  • Your audition is your time, so make it your time. Wait for the directors to be ready and then begin when you’re ready. If you’re not comfortable with how things start, you can stop and ask to begin again. (Not a dozen times, but once or twice is fine.)
  • Let us work with your schedule. If you have a schedule issue that could impact your audition, like needing to leave early for a school or family event, let us know as soon as possible! We will do our very best to make it work.
  • Don’t tell the directors that you’ll take any part if you won’t. Saying you’ll take any part and then going back on that after casting starts the summer off on the wrong foot.
  • Tell us about any preferences or challenges you have. Bringing up potential issues early allows our directors to make the best casting decisions for you and the show as a whole. It also gives us an opportunity to work with you to find solutions. Some examples we’ve seen in the past:
    • I don’t want a leading part because I don’t have time or I don’t have the confidence for it yet.
    • I have trouble with transportation.
    • I have a medical condition that impacts the amount of dancing I can do.
    • I’m going to be out of town for a week to attend a camp.
  • Give it your all and don’t hold back! Don’t put yourself in a position to regret that you didn’t show everything you have to offer.

Callbacks

  • Getting a callback or not does not necessarily indicate the Director’s choice in casting. 
  • At callbacks you can expect to learn one or more songs (or portion of a song) from the show. These will be taught in groups, reviewed, and then each member in that group will sing. Callbacks may also include an expanded dance audition, often building on or adding to the dance that was done at the first audition.
  • The Director has the right to cast any eligible student in any role, whether they received a callback or not.

Evaluations

  • STP does not discriminate in its audition process. Every eligible student is given the same fair, open, and unbiased evaluation of their abilities as presented during the audition
  • Talent as a performer is only one evaluation criterion.
  • We also consider previous experience, including experience with STP and its directors.
    • Previous experience with STP is evaluated and considered as positive, neutral, or negative.
    • If you lack experience, this will not be counted against you.
  • Another factor we evaluate and consider is your ability to contribute to the production, the program, and the STP community as a whole. We draw this evaluation from observations, including in audition rooms and the holding room.
  • The most important factor is Contribution, followed by Experience, followed by Talent.

The Fine Print

  • All casting is tentative. The Director reserves the right to exchange or substitute performers during rehearsals or performances for any reason, including but not limited to failure to appear, be punctual, or be prepared to perform your role.
  • If cast in the show, each performer agrees to take and follow direction to the best of their ability and to participate in any and all activities to the maximum extent possible. This includes but is not limited to read-throughs, rehearsals, performances, structured Program activities, promotional events, and Strike.  
  • Performers will wear the costume and all accessories assigned to them by the Costumer and approved by the Director. Performers agree to follow the direction of Stage Managers and backstage staff at all times, including when to be on-stage and not, and will comply with all directives and policies of the Summer Theatre Program.