Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to audition?

Yes.  There is a $20 audition fee.  It covers processing and materials fees.  

Is there an expense to participate?

Yes,  There is a $550 fee.  This amount is spent 100% on you and the show process.  It covers your meals, several nights housing at Theatre Festival, show shirts, show water bottles, and more. Note: We help you fundraise and locate scholarships. Also, some schools and school districts will pay for part or all of a student’s participation fee, so talk to your theatre teacher about that possibility!

Can anyone audition?

Yes, schools can send as many students as they want to audition and interview.  Your drama sponsor should coordinate that information and will be required to submit an online recommendation form.  Additionally, principals must sign-off on your participation at the time of auditions and interviews.

Do I have to sing to audition for an acting role? How will that impact my audition?

Singing is going to be integrated into the show, but singing is completely optional as part of the audition. Regardless of whether or not you complete the singing portion of the audition, you will be considered for all roles you are eligible for. Consider the singing portion as an extra element that you can be considered for in addition to the normal casting process.

What Is All-State Really Like?

Awesome! It really is a great time for everyone involved. The All-State process is AN ADDITIONAL opportunity for the students involved.  You are expected to still be an active leader and (we stress) model student with your home drama program.  Being selected for the All-State is a special honor.

The whole aspect of being involved in All-State is a chance to enhance your love for theatre by working with talented students from all over the state.  You are brought together to create a magical production.  It is like-minded people who believe in the Art of theatre.

All-State is work.  You must commit to all the rehearsal dates.  During that time, we will focus on being incredibly productive.  Yes, we start in August; however, when you add up all the time spent- that time is much less than the normal rehearsal process.  Being chosen for the All-State means that you have the capacity for that work.

We are following safety guidelines for performers.  Understand that safety is our number one concern.

Are there eligibility requirements?

Yes.  We expect you to maintain good grades.  We will do a grade check-in during the October weekend.  We have the same standards as IHSA being that you are passing 5 credit classes to be eligible to remain as part of the company.

Do I really need a headshot? I don’t have any professional photos.

Yes, you do need a headshot - this is so that our production staff can put names to faces and better remember who you are. Don’t worry - you don’t need a professional photo; any clear picture of you from the shoulders up will work just fine!

I do not live near the rehearsal spot, where do I stay?

Most rehearsals will be in the Chicago suburbs and will be able to be done in a drive.  The plan is for August, September, and (possibly) October to be rehearsals that we let people out early and commute.  Anyone who is far away from our full rehearsal weekends, we find host families for the weekend; typically, that is usually other company members or other host theatre students.  Additionally, during the Festival Week, we are all housed together in a hotel for the week.   We do want people from all over the state.

Are rehearsals REALLY mandatory?

Yes.  We are bringing together people from all over the state.  We have to use certain dates to make the magic happen.  In the end, it is a lot less than your typical rehearsal time.  You are expected to make All-State the priority for these dates.  We inform your director at the time of your audition that you applied.  Please, make sure you are available on those dates before you sign-up.  Additionally, All-State is meant to be a bonus and not a substitute for your work at your home school.

I have other questions, who do I contact?

Email allstateproducers@ihstf.org  with your additional questions.  Please note, it may be a few days until you get a response.