Auditioning Information / Forms

• "How To Audition" for MUSICALS packet

• "How To Audition" for STRAIGHT PLAYS packet

• Audition Application

PROCEDURE

Straight plays:

1.  Auditions will consist of 2 days of COLD READINGS from the script.  That means you will be placed in a group and given an excerpt from the actual script to perform in front of the director. HINT:  It’s a good idea to check out a script and read it prior to auditions!

2.  Some students will be “CALLED BACK” on a 3^rd day to read or perform again. Callbacks are used as a way to see people again in different roles, to check the chemistry between characters/actors or to check very specific elements of a character/actor.

Musicals:

1.  Auditions will consist of 1-2 days of SINGING AUDITIONS, and 1-2 days of DANCE AUDITIONS. Singing material will be posted outside the music office, categorized by voice. Learn the song… Memorize it!!!   Dancers will be divided into male/female and will perform separately then in smaller groups.  Remember to wear appropriate clothes and shoes.

2.  Some students will be “CALLED BACK” to perform COLD READINGS from the script.  That means you will be placed in a group and given an excerpt from the actual script to perform in front of the director. HINT:  It’s a good idea to check out a script and read it prior to auditions!  Callbacks are used as a way to see people again in different roles, to check the chemistry between characters/actors or to check very specific elements of a character/actor.

ELLIGIBILITY

All Parkway Central students, grades 9-12 are allowed to audition for the shows.  As required by MSHSAA (MO State High School Athletic Asso.), all students must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 courses and have passed 6 classes the proceeding semester (no more than 2 F’s).

COMMON MYTHS

1. “ Only upper classmen are cast in the shows!”  FALSE.  Students are cast based on their talent, ability to take direction, chemistry on stage with other actors and sometimes physical character conception.

2.  “I didn’t get a Call Back, so I didn’t get a role!”  FALSE.  Call Backs does not mean you have or have not been cast. It’s just a smaller group of people reading again.  Sometimes callbacks will include cold readings, improvisations, or other unconventional ways to check for character understanding.

3.  “I play a sport, so I can’t audition!” FALSE.  In fact, many athletes have been in the mainstage shows!

From football starters, track all stars, swimming, softball… you name it…athletes have participated in the shows, as actors or technicians!  The coaches are very willing to work with you and the Theatre Dept!

4.  “I work after school, so I can’t audition!” FALSE.  You can opt to request for a smaller role and then come to rehearsals only 1x week up till production week!  It’s been done!

CASTING

Casting is color blind and not based on seniority.  All students have a fair and equal chance to be cast in the production.  Casting IS based on: stage presence, characterization, movement, chemistry, making strong choices while auditioning and who best fits the role. Prior acting experience and enrollment in theatre classes are NOT required to be cast in a production.