Plain Talk About Auditions

Information for new auditionees and old hands.

January 6, 2026

Next weekend ACT is holding auditions for the first three shows of the season, Always, Patsy Kline, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and The Cake! (The last three shows will audition in May) They are being held a little differently than before so we wanted to give you a simple walk through of what to expect, and how to prepare yourself. We hope this helps calm your nerves, and gives you insight.

First, one of the reasons our directors are holding auditions isn’t just to cast these shows. Coby Goss and Jeremy Williams are both fairly new returnees to the community and want to meet the many talented actors we have in Central Arkansas. Think of this audition as a way to showcase your talent to three (Heather Dupree is the third) directors, not just as a stepping stone to be cast in any particular production.

Auditions will be structured in a new way as well. All actors will arrive promptly at the start of the audition block. Everyone who is auditioning for the musical will learn a dance together. The director is not looking for perfection, so don’t panic! Listen, do your best and have fun with it. 

After learning the dance, actors will be brought into the theatre in small groups. Each actor will perform a 1-2 minute monologue or scene. A reader for those with scenes will be provided. Then they will perform their 16 bar song, if auditioning for the musical. Please bring your sheet music or track. An accompanist will be provided. Once that group has finished, the next group will be called in.

Easy peasy, right? But that doesn’t mean you won’t have nerves. So here are some ways you can feel a little less anxious.

1. Practice your monologue/song in front of other people before your audition. This will help you get used to performing alone, in front of others. It may feel awkward to sing 16 bars of Cabaret to your grandma, but it will make singing in front of strangers so much easier.

2. Wear clothes you are comfortable in and can move in. You do not need to worry about trying to look like the characters, or being chic. The directors are interested in how you move, not in your sense of style or costume ideas. 

3. BREATHE! Remember, the directors want you to do well. In fact, all three directors are also actors! They get it. We are all rooting for you. And if you don’t get cast, that doesn’t have anything to do with your talent. Each director is looking for specific things. Whether or not you are quite right for any particular show, has zero bearing on your talent. 

We are so glad you’re being brave and allowing us to watch you shine! BREAK A LEG!!

AUDITION FORMS & DETAILS