Journey Community Theater

What is Journey Community Theater? (JCT)

Journey Community Theater provides the opportunity for all ages (8 and up) to get on stage together! This can be a fun way for youth and their families to do a show together, alumni to stay connected to the community, and to invite other adults in town into the Journey family. While the goal of these productions is the same as with all of our programs – to embody the values of community, quality, and integrity in all aspects of the process and the product – JCT opportunities support the mission in a number of ways that go beyond what our youth shows can achieve alone.

Examples of this include:

  • Opportunities for youth to grow their artistic and life skills, including collaboration with working adult actors and experiencing more competition and other “industry” elements while remaining in a community that cares for them as individuals.
  • Opportunities for parents and kids to strengthen family relationships through performing and serving together.
  • Outreach opportunities to widen the “family” of participants, patrons, and supporters who will bless and be blessed by the Journey community.

Here are the 2 main differences between how our youth and JCT shows work, and why.

1 – Types of shows we consider for JCT:

While an ideal JCT show would have casting opportunities for every age group, very few scripts are perfectly balanced across ages, genders, etc. It may be, for example, that one year a show might have ample roles for teens and up with only a few spots for younger actors, while the following year is heavier on youth roles, but may have only a few adult roles.

This balancing of opportunities over time is considered when selecting shows year over year along with the many other factors and limitations. Please see “Show Selection Considerations” for more details on how we choose a season.

Additionally, we may also take on certain shows in JCT where adult actors can fill roles that would feel less comfortable for our younger actors to portray. Still selected for stories of hope and redemption, these shows may explore more mature themes better suited for adult actors.

2 – Audition process

Please see the detailed audition process information below in the FAQs. There are a few differences between our youth shows and JCT shows. First, the auditions are “closed” versus “open”. This means that auditioners will perform solo in front of just the Artistic Team versus in front of a whole group. This method of auditioning is much more common in the theater world, is more familiar to our adult participants, and provides Journey youth with valuable experience they can take with them into future auditions, job interviews, etc.

A theater resume is an added feature for JCT productions. This can be a helpful tool for the Artistic Team, and while we don’t require it for our youth shows, it is a good exercise for youth auditioning for JCT to learn to create.

Though rare, invited auditions (where an Artistic Team might encourage specific people to come audition) are another aspect of JCT productions and also very common in the theater industry. Unlike the professional theater, however, Journey Theater roles are never “pre-cast”, even for JCT productions.

Another difference is that in JCT productions, auditioners have the opportunity to state a specific role they are auditioning for. Common also in the wider industry, this allows more flexibility for working adults to prioritize their time, ensuring a rehearsal environment where all are excited to be involved.

 

Journey Community Theater Audition FAQs

Journey Theater is an educational environment and we want our cast members to improve.  Directors are open to offering feedback, however, for the sake of fairness and growth in professionalism, we ask that you strictly adhere to the Guidelines for Audition Feedback.

 

 

Do I have to be enrolled in a class to audition?

Anyone in the community, ages 8 through adult, may audition for a Journey CommunityTheater show.  There is no enrollment requirement for Journey CommunityTheater auditions.

 

What do I bring to the audition?

  • A completed and signed Audition Form (there will be extra forms at auditions)
  • A current Theater Resume (see a sample here)
  • A current photo (4×6 is the preferred photo size)
  • An accompaniment track (instrumental only) for your song. Your song should be a portion of a song that is 16 bars/measures, or 30-45 seconds, and should not exceed 1 minute. The track needs to be a downloaded MP3 (no streaming).
  • You will need to fill out the online audition forms before you arrive (Production Committee and Costume Information)

 

Can I do a practice audition?

We are not able to accommodate practice auditions.

 

Does everyone who auditions get a part?

JOURNEY THEATER 

Auditioning: Casting & Cuts

There are considerations that could cause a person to be “cut” from a summer show:

  1. Each of our venues can only safely accommodate a certain number of cast and crew.
  2.  Auditioner is unable to demonstrate a complete audition. This may include them needing to leave the stage, needing to start their audition over, or not showing preparedness.
  3.  Inability to  maintain behavior standards (either in Journey classes or in the audition/callback experience).
  4. The demands of the show are such that scheduling conflicts & missed rehearsals will impede the progress & success of the show experience.

 

 

If you have questions about this policy, please direct your questions to:

Bethany Larson, Program Director

b.larson@journeytheater.org

 

What are the commitments for participating in a show?

An adult from each family with a person cast in the show is required to serve on a Production Committee.

For those 8 – 17, a parent signature is required on the audition form.

Required Production Meetings – dates and times are listed on the show information page.

Cast and crew members are required to be at all rehearsals for which they are scheduled & every performance.   In the case of illness or emergency, notify the Show Coordinator.  Cast members may be removed from the scenes/songs they missed at those rehearsals, at the Director’s discretion.  Excessive absences may result in dismissal from the show.

All rehearsal conflicts must be listed on the Audition form. Unexcused absences may result in dismissal from show.  Please see the rehearsal dates on the audition information page from the show links above.

Cast Members have approximately 50 hours of rehearsal time before move-in and dress rehearsal week

Cast Members are required to pay a production fee. The fee for Summer 2026 is $100 per cast member.  This fee includes a show shirt and a show sticker.
Some additional costs include make-up, shoes etc.

 

What if I have scheduling conflicts?

Conflicts may affect casting. You will have an opportunity to indicate any scheduling conflicts on the Audition Form. All cast and crew members must be able to attend every dress rehearsal and all performances.

 

 

The Audition

There are two parts to the Journey Community Theater audition process.  

First, there is the vocal audition where you perform individually.  Your song should be a portion of a song (a song from a musical is great – but not from the show you are auditioning for) that is 16 bars/measures, or 30-45 seconds, and should not exceed 1 minute. The track needs to either be on a CD, or a downloaded MP3 (no streaming). These auditions are closed, which means you will perform for the artistic team, in a room with no audience.

Second, based on your vocal audition, you may be invited to Callbacks.  Callbacks often take place over two days and consist of dance auditions, cold readings from the script, and singing from the score.   

 

Get Your Phone Ready for Auditions

  • Take the phone out of its case – sometimes the headphone cable cannot plug in with the case on.
  • Turn the volume ALL THE WAY UP
  • Turn off any screen time-outs or temporarily remove any passcode to get into the phone
  • Download the song onto the phone, DO NOT RELY ON STREAMING. The internet connection in the building is very spotty and unreliable.

 

Keys to a successful audition.

•   A big smile!

•   Using a loud, clear voice, continuing with good projection all the way through.  And be sure to slate (Hello, my name is ___________________ and I will be performing _______________ (name of song) from __________________ (musical).

•   Dressing nice – not in costume, but like you would for a school presentation.  A clean and professional look goes a long way in making a good impression.

•   Performance energy – move around with gestures and facial expressions that help tell the story.  Song shouldn’t be choreographed per se, but the judges are looking for “stage presence.”

 

 

Who are the "Judges"?

The Artistic Team for the show act as judges for the auditions.  Usually, the Director, Music Director and Choreographer are at the table.  They have adjudication forms that they’re completing for each person.  They evaluate:

•   Stage Presence – how a person presents themselves physically

•   Diction & Projection – how clearly the they speaks and how strong of a performance they give

•   Pitch & Range how well a they sings in tune and demonstrates their voice.

They also have a place to write general comments about the performance and start making some decision about who they would like to see at Callbacks.   They smile at you, help you get back on if you forget the words and generally support your whole process.

 

Things to avoid.

  • Do not sing a song from the show you are auditioning for.  This allows the Artistic Team to consider you for many characters, rather than the character who sings this song.
  • Keep your hands out of your pockets
  • Don’t throw anything.
  • Try not to rock back in forth.
  • Generally, handing things to the directors or going up to the table isn’t a good idea.
  • Keep smiling and be confident, even if you think you didn’t do your best.
  • Stay within the limit of 16 bars (30 – 45 seconds).  You will be cut off if you exceed that limit.
  • If you have a lot of conflicts, casting options may be significantly limited or impossible.
  • Focus on phrasing and dynamics. These will make your song stand out.
  •  Show your strengths but show them in a controlled, musical way.

 

How to Choose A Song

  1.  Choose a song that is within your vocal range.  You should be able to sing it with ease, even on a bad day, to showcase the particular strengths of your voice. If the song is too high or too low for you voice chances are you will struggle at some points in the audition to nail a note.
  2. Choose a song that you understand, so that you can communicate the message of the song well.
  3. Choose a song from a musical that is in the same style of the show you are auditioning for; or choose a song written by the same author(s) of the show you are auditioning for.

 

What kind of song should I sing?

Those auditioning perform a portion of a song that is 16 bars/measures or about 30-45 seconds (not to exceed 1 minute) to a backing (karaoke) track of their choice.  That means that there should not be any “lead vocals”.  It should be instrumental only so that the student’s voice can really be showcased.

Journey produces MUSICALS, so the song should be a musical theater selection from Broadway-style show/composer.  Do not sing a song from the show you are auditioning for.  This allows the Artistic Team to consider you for many characters, rather than the character who sings this song.

Take their time when choosing and preparing an audition song.  It’s important to research the show and the various characters  then select a piece that helps showcase them for the role(s) they’re interested in.  For example, if a student is most interested in playing the villain in the show, they should choose a song that captures that type of character.  If they are interested in the comedic role, an upbeat funny song is a perfect choice.  The judges may decide a different role is better for them, but the student should show their intention towards a character.

People who are hesitant about singing might want to consider a “patter” song that will showcase enunciation and an ability to perform to music.    

To choose a song, you can listen to song samples on MTIshows.com or look up songs thru iTunes.  You’ll need to purchase a KARAOKE or backing track which to perform.  The judges really need to hear YOUR voice, so you are not allowed to sing along with a lead vocalist.  Likewise, a cappella (without any accompaniment) auditions are not allowed.

 

Resources for finding and editing your audition song.

Where to find Songs:

Editing Songs

  • Audacity is a free download editing software. It is very basic and simple to use. This is perfect to cut your song down to the 16 bars/measures limit, or 30-45 seconds.
  • Also- here is a link to instructions on how to remove vocals from a song using Audacity.

Audition Tips Websites

 

Callbacks

Callbacks are by invitation.  Those invited should come ready to dance (no need to prepare anything), and sing and/or read from the show.

 

How do Callbacks work?

After Auditions, the judges deliberate to determine who they would like to see at Callbacks.   The invitation list is posted on the Show Callboard along with instructions for participation.

If you are  NOT called back, it simply means that the judges got all the information they needed during Auditions.  It does not necessarily mean that the you are not cast.

Typically Callbacks consists of a Dance Audition where the Choreographer teaches a group number to those in attendance.  After it’s been taught, he/she will put students in small groups and they’ll dance the selection together for the artistic team to evaluate.

Another group of auditioners will be asked to  Cold Reading and Singing Callbacks.  The Artistic Team then works together to gather the information they need for casting as they watch people perform works from the show, receive direction, and demonstrate their character choices.

 

Tips for a successful Callback.

General Callback Tips

  • Strong creative choices are essential.
  • The directors are there to help you do your best- so feel free to ask questions and clarify directions.
  • Give your best at every role you are called back for – not just the one you “want”. Every opportunity is important.
  • Be flexible with your role expectations.
  • The number of times you read or sing is really no indication of casting thoughts. Sometimes directors need to see some people more than others.
  • Don’t give up! The day is long, don’t let yourself get discouraged by how you feel you are performing or how others are doing.
  • Try! Do your best! Have fun with the material.
  • You are auditioning from the moment you walk into callbacks. Be respectful, helpful, courteous. This goes a long way.
  • Often the directors will give you a description of the song, character or scene. Listen- this is essential information for you.
  • Have fun with the material and the characters.
  • Be yourself! If you are called back for a role, there is something in your personality or performance that is in common with the character. So be natural.

Dance Callback Tips

  • This is not the time to talk with friends- pay attention.
  • Even if you can’t do a move perfectly- just try it!
  • Help each other out.
  • If you are asked to “free dance” you can use choreography that you learned in the past.
  • Do your best- be confident.
  • Facial expressions are important. Remember to smile.

Voice Callback Tips

  • If possible, listen to the music ahead of time.
  • Don’t worry if you mess up- try your best and keep going.
  • Even if you don’t think you can sing something- go ahead and try.
  • Focus on breathing and articulation.
  • Don’t get deflated if you crack on a note or miss something. One note is not going to make or break you.
  • Try to show character and acting with the song you are singing.
  • Ground the song in the scene – you don’t need to sing to the directors.
  • Try to think about the words you are singing and connect to the emotion of the song.
  • Relax and remember the fundamentals.
  • Be confident.

Cold Read (reading from the shows script) Callback Tips

  • Strong, creative choices are essential.
  • As soon as you are given a script, start reading over the scenes with the character for which you are called back. Find what the most important part of the scene is. What does your character want out of the scene?
  • Physicality, vocal inflection, facial expressions and non verbals are important parts of your callback.
  • Make the interpretation of the role your own. You don’t need to do it the same way as the person in front of you did it.
  • Don’t worry about stage directions or how you think a scene should be blocked. But add movement and follow the natural movements of the scene.
  • Relate to the person you are doing a scene with.
  • Follow along in your script with your thumb. This will help you keep your place.
  • Utilize every opportunity presented. For example, if you are asked to read in a scene a different part – go for it! You never know when the directors will see something that gives them an idea for casting.
  • Let the natural emotions and reactions of the scene unfold.
  • Feel free to ask questions.
  • If you are called at the beginning – it is ok to take a moment to skim the scene.
  • Try to look up from your script. Read your next line as the other person is finishing their line.
  • Don’t play to the directors. Play the scene.
  • If you are doing a scene with a partner that is struggling – don’t get frustrated. Help them by delivering a strong performance yourself.
  • Take risks. The bigger the better.
  • If the role requires an accent, take your best stab at doing it.
  • Be engaged in the scene the whole time- not just when you are saying a line.

 

Audition Exceptions

 

 

What if I want to be in a show, and can't make it to the audition?

Occasionally people are allowed to submit a video audition. Permission for this exception is granted only after prior arrangement with the Show Coordinator in conjunction with the Program Director.  Video submissions must be received by email by the designated cut-off audition time for the show the you are auditioning for.  All required paperwork must also be attached to the email submission.  The Judges will then watch the video during their deliberations and score the student in the same manner in which they did the other auditioners.  Some scenarios that may receive approval for this exception include:

  • Family trip planned well in advance of the audition date being published.
  • Unforeseeable medical issues, such as contracting pink eye or head lice.  Doctor’s note required.
  • Conflict with scheduled medical procedure.

Please talk to your Show Coordinator ASAP if you think you may be eligible for consideration.