AUDITION PROCESS
We know that the word “audition” often sounds intimidating, so I want to be very clear about what happens at an audition and hopefully put any nerves you may have to rest. The theater is for EVERYONE, and we do our very best to make our auditions a fun and welcoming experience. Read on for details!
Basic Information
The age range for auditions is entering 9th grade and up, with no age limit on the top end. We can accept auditions for younger performers whose parents/guardians are also auditioning or volunteering to be part of the show. If there is a question about this, email the director. There are 3 components to the audition process: singing, dancing, and speaking. Every component of the basic audition will be done in a large group setting. If you are interested in a featured or ensemble role, you will be excused from auditions after the large group auditions are complete. IF you are interested in a leading or supporting role, you are invited to stay for the individual audition, which will include a solo singing selection.
Dancing: We always begin by moving. Everyone will be brought up on stage for a very quick tutorial in a brief dance number that will eventually be part of the show. If you have any dance training, this will likely be a pretty simple task. If you do not, you may be more challenged, but let me assure you, the dance number is ONLY there to familiarize you with the choreography, and to let the directors know what your skill level is. In Annie, some of the show numbers are basic and simple, while others are more complicated. The dance audition simply helps us determine which numbers will suit you the best, and we can put you in a corresponding scene.
Speaking: There will be handouts at auditions with very brief scenes from the show. Each scene will have anywhere from 2-5 characters in it. You will be given 15 minutes to find a few people to join you in a scene. When your group is ready, you will take the stage and perform the scene. (It doesn’t have to be memorized!) We are listening to your speaking tone, your projection, and your rate of speed, while watching your facial expression and how you stand/interact with your scene partners. You are able to participate in up to three small groups so we can hear you multiple times. PLEASE NOTE: You are not necessarily reading for a specific role - you are reading for us to see HOW you perform, not WHO you perform.
Singing: Finally, we will sing several of the group songs together. This will give you a chance to hear the music, take a look at the words, and get comfortable with the melodies. The directors simply walk around, listen, and get a feel for your tone and your possible range. Once the group sing is over, if you are content with a featured or ensemble role, you may leave. If you are interested in a leading or supporting role, you will be asked to stay and choose one of the numbers to perform for a solo. You ARE able to prepare in advance by studying the show and familiarizing yourself with the number from the show that you are planning to perform.
Video Submissions: If you are interested in auditioning but the audition dates/times do not fit into your schedule, we will accept video submissions until NOON on Monday, June 1st. We MUST have all auditions completed by then, so we can schedule callbacks accordingly. Submit a video of you performing a song from the show, and reading a monologue or short scene of your choosing. Script selections and a song list will be provided to you, if you choose this option and reach out to the director at the email address below. A dance submission is optional. Video submissions should be sent directly to the Director at sgudahl@fairmont.k12.mn.us . Please make sure you send them in a format that can be viewed - Google Drive files are preferred. (Please do not send Apple OS or iPhone videos - they are not compatible with our system.)