Audition Requirements

AUDITIONING FOR CAROLS IN THE GARDENS

Auditions for STAR & 4MK's Carols in the Gardens are submitted by video audition. Auditions are open to any member of the Mackay community who is aged 5 years and above. 

Video Audition Requirements

• 1. Solo Performance Only: Audition videos must feature a solo performer only.

  2. Repertoire: Prepare one Christmas Song (traditional or modern). Consider the type of music you would expect to hear performed at a Christmas event. A list of repertoire suggestions (including pieces commonly featured at our event) can be found here.

  3. Accompaniment: Performances should be accompanied using a suitable backing track or live accompaniment (e.g. piano or guitar). Backing tracks must not contain recorded vocals.

  4.  Performance and Stage Presence: Your performance should demonstrate your ability to engage an audience through confident stage presence, facial and physical expression (including basic movement), vocal expression and interpretation of the song.

  5. Duration: Video submissions must not exceed 3 minutes in length. 

  6. File Format: Videos must be submitted in MP4 format. File size should not exceed 375MB to avoid upload issues.

  7. Framing and Visibility: Ensure the performer's whole body is visible in the frame of the video, with a clear view of the performer's face throughout.

  8. Introduction: At the beginning of the video, performers should state their full name and age (if under 18). Please name your file as follows: Performer Name – Carols Audition (e.g. John Black – Carols Audition).

  9. Recency: Videos must have been filmed recently (within the past three months) to reflect the performer’s current vocal ability.

  10. Submission: Upload your video via the provided Dropbox link by the submission deadline and complete the accompanying electronic form. For auditionees under 18, the form should be completed by a parent or guardian.

Terms and Conditions of Participation: Carols in the Garden 2026

Rehearsals

Singers selected to perform in the 2026 Carols in the Gardens will be required to commit to the following rehearsal and performance schedule:

• 1. Rehearsals with Vocal Coach/Choreographer: 2–5 rehearsals at an agreed-upon afternoon, evening or weekend time.

  2. Band Rehearsals: 1–2 evening rehearsals with the live band during the week of Monday 30th November – Thursday 3rd December.

  3. Sound Check: Mandatory sound check on Saturday, 5th December, between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

  4. Performance Call Time: Performers must arrive by 5:30 pm on Saturday, 5th December. The performance will conclude between 8:00 pm and 8:30 pm.

Attendance Requirement
Attendance at all scheduled rehearsals and the sound check is compulsory. Failure to attend any of these may result in removal from the final performance.

Performance Attire
Performers are responsible for sourcing appropriate performance attire. Colours and style will be coordinated in consultation with group members and the director.

Consent and Media Release

• By submitting an audition, you consent to the use of your (or your child’s) name for promotional purposes related to the event, including on social media and local radio.

• You also grant permission for photographs and video footage to be taken during rehearsals and the performance, and for this media to be used in promotional materials, including on social media platforms.

Casting Decisions

Casting for this performance is at the discretion of the directing team, and decisions will not be open to discussion. Auditionees will be notified of the outcome of their audition via email. 

Click here to read StarFM's General Terms and Conditions.