Ashland High School Theatrical Society
2026 Winter Production
Music and Lyrics by Neil Bartram Book by Brian Hill
Friday, February 27 at 7
Saturday, February 28 at 7
Sunday, March 1 at 2
(Snow Date: Saturday, March 7 at 2)
From Drama Desk Award nominees Neil Bartram and Brian Hill (The Story of My Life), The Theory of Relativity is a joyous and moving look about our surprisingly interconnected lives. Whether you're allergic to cats, in love for the first or tenth time, a child of divorce, a germaphobe or simply a unique individual, audience members and actors alike are sure to find themselves in this fresh new musical.
Through a seemingly unrelated collection of songs, scenes and monologues, The Theory of Relativity introduces a compelling array of characters experiencing the joys and heartbreaks, the liaisons and losses, the inevitability and the wonder of human connection.
"Take a Physics manual, blend it with the sound of The Book of Mormon, the hilariously nerdy references of The Big Bang Theory , a sprinkle of Chicago, few drops of Glee, bake it in a Broadway bowl, use all the originality you can have....That’s the successful recipe for the spectacular song cycle, The Theory of Relativity." – Live Like Tom
Directed by David E. Harrington
Musical Direction: Kim Whiteley Choreography: Hannah McCowan
Artistic Design and Technical Direction: David E. Harrington
Production Staff
Stage Manager/Assistant Director: Kieran Cade
Deputy Stage Managers:
Costume Designer:
Lighting Designer and Board Operator:
Technical Director:
Sound Board: Allyssa Forgit
Dance Captain:
Scenic Crew:
Spot Light Operator:
House Manager:
House Staff:
The Theory of Relativity Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com
Casting: Flexible, up to 16 and with the potential for an ensemble.
Auditions: Tuesday, December 2 at 3; Call Backs Wednesday, December 3 at 3.
Here is the link where you can find the script. You can also listen to the show on Spotify.
Click here for an Audition/Crew Form (when ready)
We will be asking for a headshot from each person auditioning. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, a simple black & white photo of your face taken from your phone is fine. You can print it out or send it to me. This will help identify who is who, especially as the music director and choreographer.
Click here for audition resources, including sheet music and audition tracks. (when ready)
Audition Principals
The Audition Process will be guided by the following principals:
Students will not be excluded from being cast simply because they are inexperienced.
The casting procedures will be professional and respectful—keeping in mind all actors face rejection all the time, and feel it.
All students are welcome to audition.
Everyone can act, and does so every single day.
Audition Method
Anyone with a grain of compassion hates auditions. You know that you are going to hurt someone’s feelings, no matter what you do. Unfortunately, no one has ever found a better way to cast a play. You have to audition. There are many audition methods built around answering particular questions. The audition method being used is a prepared song.
We will look for four things when you audition:
1. Showing off your ability as a singer.
2. Demonstrating your abilities as a musician.
3. Using your skills as an actor.
4. Showing off your ability to carry a role.
Song Choices (TBD)-Pick the one right for your vocal range. You will sing the song to a recording. Songs should be prepared, but if you need your music that is fine.
Framework of Auditions
Auditions will be open only to those auditioning.
Students will not be cast or placed in a crew position if their Audition/Crew Forms are not in.