Questions? Email me at nwood@wcpss.net!
During your individual audition:
Walk confidently to the center of the stage.
Introduce yourself, speaking loudly enough so your voice fills the room.
State what role you would like as your first choice
Introduce the title of your song or monologue (you may choose which you would like to do first)
We will likely need a couple of seconds after the first part of your audition to write down our feedback for you. Just breathe! Our notes are to help us remember everything we loved about your performance!
When we are ready, we will ask you what the title is of the 2nd part of your audition (monologue/song, whichever you have left to perform)
*Remember to eat/drink something beforehand so you have energy to perform your best, don't apologize before, during, or after your audition, and HAVE FUN!
Consider:
Songs that show off your voice or strengths as a performer
Songs that portray a similar character to the role you would like the most
Songs that show what you want within 30 seconds (you don't have very much time to show off during your audition)
If you plan to play an instrumental track for your audition, make sure it starts just before your singing (don't waste your 30 seconds waiting to begin singing) and be sure to practice with that starting point in mind so can start off confidently
Look at the audition requirements listed for the school/theater company you are auditioning for:
Time Length: Usually between 30 seconds-1 minute
Style/Time Period of Musical Theater, such as golden age or pop.
Usually, you are not supposed to choose a song from the show you are auditioning for (at Salem MS, I just want you to pick the song that shows off your voice the most)
Acapella/instrumental track/piano sheet music: Audition Information will specify if there is an accompanist provided or if they expect you to sing with a track or acapella (without accompaniment).
*Monologues ARE are required part of the 2026-2027 Spring Musical Audition*
Consider:
Monologues that show off your strengths as a performer
Monologues that show a similar character to the role you want the most in the show
Monologues that show a character that is believable based on who you are (ex: as a young person, it is hard to portray a more mature character) In middle school theater, it is ok to do so, since students will be playing every character regardless of age.
Look at the audition requirements listed for the school/theater company you are auditioning for:
Time Limit/Length: Usually between 30 seconds - 1 minute, sometimes as long as 2
For Salem's Musical Auditions, your monologue should last between 30 seconds-1 minute
You may choose one of the monologues off of this google drive folder (see below) OR find your own. I recommend searching on google "monologue options for middle school actors".
During your audition, make sure you have linked your monologue script in your Audition Information Form and/or have a printed copy of your script to hand to the audition panel at the beginning of your audition
Dance/Group Audition:
Students will be split into 2-3 groups and will take turns doing acting exercises and learning a dance combination.
Make sure you are quiet and respectful while receiving instructions, practicing the dance combination, and when other students are performing. We are looking for students who will positively contribute to each rehearsal, not students who disrupt our work.
While you are acting or dancing, try your best and give your full energy. We are looking for performers who are going all-out every chance they get!
*Remember to eat/drink something beforehand so you have energy to perform your best, don't apologize before, during, or after your audition, and HAVE FUN!
**Audition results (the Callback List) will be emailed to everyone who auditioned on AND posted in front of the auditorium.
Your name will be on the Callback list if you made it to the next round of auditions.
Final Cast List: Final casting decisions will be announced via email and a paper copy of the list will be posted outside of the auditorium.
*If you are on the final cast list, write your initials next to your name ASAP to accept the role. If you are unable to accept the role, let Ms. Wood know immediately via email (nwood@wcpss.net)
Musical Fee: Everyone who accepts their role as a cast member or technical theater member will need to submit a fee of $20-40 (depending on the show) that will cover your Show T-Shirt and other costs related to putting on the show (costumes, makeup, set pieces, snacks, etc.) For our Cast/Crew Fee in the 26-27 school year, the fee is $25.
*If this fee puts your family in financial strain, please let Ms. Wood know. Do not let it be a barrier that prevents you from auditioning/accepting your role*