Who May Audition?
Anyone may audition for a Theatre Cedar Rapids production. All performers are volunteers. Some come to TCR with a lot of experience, others are first-timers. No experience is required. All roles are cast from the broadest ethnic spectrum.
When Are Auditions?
Auditions are generally scheduled five to seven weeks prior to a show’s opening, at 7:00 pm Sunday and Monday evenings.
You need only audition once, but are welcome to attend both evenings. Additional nights may be used for callbacks.
We normally audition one show at a time, though occasionally we may audition multiple shows at once.
Check the right-hand column of this page for specifics about upcoming productions.
How Are Auditions Conducted?
For non-musicals auditioners are usually asked to read scenes from the script. Depending on the nature of the production, the director may ask everyone to read the same scene or may have a number of scenes to read. Directors also utilize improv exercises in some auditions. Often, in the first audition, the director is looking for general characteristics, technique, and ability to work with others. In callbacks the director will be doing more role-specific readings.
In musicals we often will break the auditions into separate dance and singing components. Depending on the nature of the show, the music director may specify certain audition pieces for individual roles and provide sheet music ahead of time for auditioners to prepare. Other times, the music director will teach the music at the auditions and therefore no preparation is needed. Acting or non-singing auditions are often held during callbacks.
How Should I Prepare?
We strongly encourage you to familiarize yourself with the script ahead of time. Scripts are available for checkout from the TCR Business Office.
A script read-through is generally scheduled one week prior to auditions. This informal gathering allows you to read the script aloud with other auditioners and to ask questions. Feel free to talk with the director prior to auditions to ask about the play and what is being looked for in various roles.
Bring personal calendars to auditions in order to share potential conflicts with the director in advance of casting.
Keep an open mind and try not to “pre-cast” yourself. Be enthusiastic — when the director asks for volunteers, jump right in.
Remember, perfection is not expected at auditions, so have fun!
When Are Rehearsals?
A typical rehearsal schedule is 7:00 to 9:30 pm Monday through Friday and 2:00 to 5:00 pm Sundays.
Non-musicals generally rehearse four or five weeks, musicals will rehearse 6 to 8 weeks.
Depending on your role, you may not be required to attend every rehearsal the first few weeks.
