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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers to most show specific questions can be found in the audition notice and on the show information page. The rest of this section is for general information, and not show-specific tips.
Do I need previous experience to audition at Aaaahz?
Experience is great and can be helpful, but anyone is welcome to audition. The point of Aaaahz shows is to give young people the opportunity to gain experience in musical theatre.
How long will the auditions take?
The audition notice will give you a start time and end time. You should plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to sign up and fill out your audition form. The audition is over when the director dismisses you. This may be earlier or it may be later than anticipated and being dismissed early does not mean you auditioned poorly. All it means is the director has seen all s/he needs to see from you to make a casting decision. Come prepared with water, a snack and patience. Parents and friends are allowed to attend the auditions but will be asked to sit quietly and not participate in the process.
What Happens At Auditions?
First round auditions are done on a first come, first serve basis. When you arrive, you'll check in at the registration table. If you haven't already filled out an audition form you can obtain one at the registration table. Please note the signs posted on the table stating the tuition for the show along with the date, time, and place of the first parent meeting. When you bring back your completed audition form your picture will be taken and you will be assigned a number. We typically call up a small group who will be handed a sheet of lines for what is known as a cold reading and asked to take a seat on the audition "stage." Each individual will have an opportunity to go over her/his music with the accompanist or set up the CD player. We ask each person to state their name and the name of the song prior to starting. Once all of the auditioners have completed their songs, each person in turn will be asked to read a line from the page of lines they were given previously. It doesn't matter which character they read. The Director may ask you to "vocalize" to find your range. You may also be asked to dance for the choreographer if the show requires it. Once that is done the group will be dismissed and may leave if they wish. We ask those who stay to observe to be quiet and respectful of those who are auditioning.
Callbacks are a little different. You along with a number of other auditioners will likely be told to arrive at a specific time and you will audition together as a group. The Director will teach you one or more excerpts from a songs in the show and may try you on various parts to find out how quickly you learn music and whether or not you're able to sing harmony parts. You will also be paired up with others who may be cast with you in short scenes from the show for more cold reading. You may read one or more characters and may be asked to read many times.
What are the requirements for auditions?
It's important that you read the audition notice carefully to be sure of the director's requirements. Usually everyone who auditions for a musical must sing a song, read from the script on stage with other auditioners, as well as learn and perform a dance combination.
How do I choose a song?
If you have a vocal teacher, discuss your song choice and prepare it with their help. If you do not, start with these basic tips: 1) Choose a song from a Broadway show; pop songs are NOT encouraged. 2) Choose a similar style to the show you are auditioning for, be it jazzy, rock 'n roll or traditional. 3) Choose a song that fits well with your natural vocal range and style. 4) Pick a song you already know, or at least one with a familiar tune. This will help with your learning time and confidence at the audition. 5) Choose a back up song. Sometimes, the director will ask you to sing something else; so have another song ready just in case. Sheet music and karaoke CDs are available from many sources, including online retailers like itunes, ebay and Amazon. Give yourself enough time to order, receive and practice the song before the auditions and be sure to bring a copy of your music in the correct key for the audition pianist. It helps if you have it either in a binder, book, or accordion format to make it easy for the accompanist to turn pages. Please note we ask that you not use a CD that includes vocals and if you bring one you will be asked to sing unaccompanied!
Note: Younger children do not need to prepare a full song. Singing a well known children's song like Happy Birthday, Itsy Bitsy Spider, Ring Around the Rosie, etc. Is sufficient.
What should I wear to auditions?
For vocal and reading auditions, you may wear anything that's comfortable as long as it's neat and clean. Keep in mind the audition space could be cold or hot, so layers are best. Do not wear revealing or overly tight clothing. Your shoes should be comfortable and easy to walk in; clunky clogs, high heels and flip flops are not ideal. For dance auditions, you must wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can stretch and move in. You should also wear either dance shoes like ballet, jazz or character shoes, or tennis shoes.
Do I need a resume and picture?
There is a space on the audition form where you can list any previous experience you may have. We typically take photos of auditioners to assist with casting decisions. "Serious" and "performance career-oriented" auditioners are highly encouraged to provide resumes and head-shots. However, parents and auditioners are encouraged not to create lengthy and extensive resumes. Your resume should include your contact information, a list of other shows and roles you've had, your dance and music experience, and any special performance skills you may have (sword-fighting, for example). The picture should be a head and shoulders shot and have your name written on the back. In addition, all auditioners should bring a list of dates you know you are not available between the audition and Closing Night (i.e. vacations, work commitments). Head-shots will not be returned.
Does Aaaahz pre-cast roles?
No. All roles are assigned based on auditions.
What are Call-backs and how will I know if I need to be there?
Call-backs are the last step in the audition process and usually have more of the same singing, reading and dance elements as the regular audition. They are needed when the director wants to see people again, perhaps in different combinations or in different scenes/roles than before. Sometimes the director may have specific people sing a specific song from the show. If you are auditioning for a lead role, check the audition notice to see if you need to prepare another song. You will usually find out if you need to be at the Call-back auditions when the director posts a list or talks to you individually. If you are not called back do not assume you are out of the running for a lead in the show. It's not unusual for directors to see all they need at the first audition.
How will I find out if I'm in the show?
The director will post a cast list sometime after the Call-back auditions. It will include the names of everyone in the show and their role. If you're on the list, congratulations and welcome! If you're not, please try again next time. Please note that all decisions are final and may not be disputed. Some changes may occur if a cast member is unable to accept their role, but it's up to the director to make those changes, and arguing will likely decrease your chances both now and in the future!
Participation-related questions:
What are the age Ranges for the shows?
We have two different age ranges. Mainstage productions are for our younger students between the ages of 5 and 12. Our Conservatory shows are for those between the ages of 13 and 21. Exceptions may be made depending on the needs of the show and are at the discretion of the Director and the Producer.
Does Aaaahz charge any tuition or fees?
Yes. Tuition varies depending on whether it's a Mainstage or Conservatory performance. Mainstage productions are currently $350 per student while Conservatory productions are $450. This fee partially covers the cost of producing the show such as performance rights, theater and rehearsal space rental, costumes, t-shirts, CD/DVD, staff stipends, etc. Tuition is due in full when you accept your role. We do not want money to be an object when it comes to participation. If paying the fee will create a hardship for you, please talk to the producer to make arrangements. Often we can work out weekly or bi-weekly payments.
Do I need to provide anything on my own?
Cast members are expected to provide their own shoes, undergarments and make-up. Cast members may also be asked to bring articles from their own wardrobes to fill in some costumes.
What are the responsibilities of the cast member?
Cast members are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances, help with sets and props, as well as help promote the show. Any absences outside of what you submitted on the audition form conflict sheet must be discussed and approved by the director before rehearsal. Cast members are also expected to learn their parts on time, have a positive attitude, keep focused during rehearsals, and respect their fellow cast members and production staff.
Is parental involvement required?
Parents are responsible for transporting their children to and from rehearsals. Changes in the schedule should be expected and parents should remain flexible. Parents are asked to donate 20 hours to assist with the production and at minimum should help to promote the show. If you are interested in helping in other ways, such as costumes, lights, stage crew or box office, please see the producer.
What is the rehearsal schedule like?
The specific schedule will be posted by the director and is subject to change. Generally speaking for productions during the school year rehearsals take place on weekday evenings starting around 5:30 PM and lasting until 8:30 or 9:00 PM with weekend days as necessary. Summer Camp production rehearsals typically happen weekdays starting around 9-10 AM and going until 4-5 PM with the occasional weekend day. Early rehearsals focus on learning the music while later rehearsals focus on choreography, blocking, etc. Cast members are expected to begin memorizing their lines as soon as they receive their scripts. The week before opening night is known as Tech Week and there will be daily rehearsals and possibly evening rehearsals every day of that week leading up to opening night.
What is the performance schedule like?
A production can run from 1-3 weeks and there are 3-6 shows per weekend with a minimum of 5 shows per production. The schedule depends on the size of the show and the judgment of the director and producer.
Organization-Related Questions:
What does Tuition Cover?
Tuition includes rehearsals, scripts, librettos, the bulk of the costumes (cast members may be asked to bring shoes and items from their own wardrobes), show t-shirts, CD of photos from the show, and the cast party. It does not cover personal items many cast members may already have like makeup kits appropriate for their skin tones. We offer for sale makeup kits at a discount but they do not have to be purchased through us. Those cast in a leading role MUST have a makeup kit. Cast members will be responsible for their own lunches, snacks, and water during rehearsals.
Where Does the Money Go?
Aaaahz operates on a very tight budget. We strive for high production values while keeping costs as low as possible. The largest single item is theater and rehearsal space followed by rights, then sets, costumes, props and printing. Certain key staff are provided with a modest honorarium for their time and effort. Any profits beyond that go towards ongoing expenses such as insurance, storage, equipment purchases, program improvements, and scholarships. Typically money received for tuition covers roughly one half of the costs of producing a show and the rest comes from ticket sales, donations, and grants. ALL profits are reinvested into Aaaahz Youth Theater and are not used for anything not related to our mission!