Audition Information & Process

LEX VAPA Theatre Department

At LEX VAPA Theatre, auditions are designed to be welcoming, educational, and growth-focused experiences for all students — whether it is their very first audition or they are experienced performers. Our goal is not simply to cast productions, but to help students build confidence, professionalism, creativity, and collaborative skills in a supportive environment.

We encourage all interested students to audition, regardless of prior experience.

Audition Process

1. Sign Up for an Audition Slot

Each production will have its own audition sign-up form and information page distributed through:

• ParentSquare

• Google Classroom

• Morning announcements

• The LEX VAPA Theatre Website

• Official LEX VAPA Theatre social media pages

Students must sign up for an audition slot in advance whenever possible.

Information collected may include:

• Student name

• Grade level

• Student email

• Parent/guardian contact information

• Scheduling conflicts

• Areas of interest (acting, singing, dance, technical theatre, etc.)

2. Read the Audition Information Carefully

Each production may have slightly different audition requirements depending on the needs of the show.

Audition notices will include:

• audition dates and times

• rehearsal expectations

• performance dates

• materials to prepare (if applicable)

• callback information

• content advisories (if needed)

• technical theatre opportunities

Students and families should carefully review all information before auditions.

3. Prepare for the Audition

Many productions will include some combination of:

• cold readings from the script

• short vocal excerpts taught at auditions

• movement/choreography activities

• improvisation exercises

• theatre games or ensemble work

For most middle school productions, students will not be expected to prepare lengthy monologues unless specifically stated.

Our auditions are designed to evaluate:

• willingness to participate

• collaboration

• creativity

• effort

• preparedness

• positive attitude

• growth potential

Not simply prior experience.

4. Callbacks

Some productions may include callbacks.

Callbacks are not a guarantee of casting, nor does not receiving a callback mean a student will not be cast. Callbacks simply help the creative team explore specific character combinations, vocal ranges, movement abilities, or storytelling possibilities.

Callback information will be communicated clearly to students and families.

Do I need prior theatre experience to audition?

Absolutely not. Many students auditioning for LEX VAPA Theatre productions are participating in theatre for the first time. We value enthusiasm, effort, creativity, and collaboration just as much as experience.

What if I am nervous?

That is completely normal — even professional actors get nervous. Auditions at Lexington Middle are intended to be supportive learning experiences. Our goal is to help students grow and gain confidence.

Can students participate in technical theatre instead of performing onstage?

Yes! Students may express interest in:

• lighting

• sound

• costumes

• props

• scenic art

• stage management

• run crew

• projections/media

• front of house/publicity

Many productions offer extensive opportunities both onstage and behind the scenes.

What if audition slots fill up?

If audition slots become full, additional slots may be added when possible due to student interest and scheduling availability.

Students should still complete the interest form or contact the director if they are unable to secure a slot.

What if a student cannot attend auditions?

Whenever possible, students should attend auditions in person. However, alternate arrangements or virtual submissions may occasionally be accommodated due to illness, emergencies, or significant conflicts.

Families should contact the director as early as possible regarding conflicts.

Is everyone cast?

Casting decisions depend on:

• production needs

• available roles

• rehearsal commitment

• ensemble balance

• student preparedness

• behavior and collaboration

Some productions may be large enough to include nearly all interested students, while others may have more limited casting needs.

Students not cast are strongly encouraged to remain involved through future productions, technical theatre opportunities, clubs, workshops, and classes.

How are casting decisions made?

Casting is based on many factors, including:

• storytelling needs of the production

• vocal and acting ability

• movement and stage presence

• chemistry between performers

• rehearsal reliability

• professionalism and collaboration

• educational opportunities for student growth

Our goal is always to create the strongest possible ensemble while also supporting student development.

At LEX VAPA Theatre, auditions are not about “winning” roles. They are about learning how to take creative risks, present yourself professionally, support an ensemble, and grow as an artist and human being.

We believe theatre education should create spaces where students feel:

• safe to try

• encouraged to grow

• respected as individuals

• challenged creatively

• proud of their work

Every audition is an opportunity to learn something new about storytelling, performance, collaboration, and yourself.