Southern Utah University’s theatre department held auditions March 5-6. Results will determine the casting for the fall 2024 productions, both for mainstage and Second Studio. These auditions are run as a sort of “cattle call” in which auditionees are brought into the room in small groups to perform in front of the panel of directors.
“This being my first time on the other side of the table in a collegiate-level theatre was super awesome,” said Micah Cajilig, the future artistic director for Second Studio. “It really showcased how much work and dedication everybody puts into their audition.”
The students auditioning were asked to prepare a one-minute Shakespearean verse monologue to audition for plays. Those interested could present a one-minute Broadway song in addition to a dance call if they wished to be considered for the musicals as well. These pieces are usually introduced with what is called a slate.
“Slating is such a big component to somebody’s audition. You say your name, say what you’re doing a piece from, insert the show and who it’s by. And then if you’re doing a song you say, ‘I’ll be singing ‘insert song title’ by the composer.’ Don’t say thank you, don’t say the character you’re portraying, just say the pieces you’re doing,” Cajilig states. ”Don’t show me that you’re nervous! If you fumble a line, if you fumble a lyric, own it and move on because that’s going to make us forget it.”
After auditions were finished, directors selected specific students to attend callbacks, where auditionees are invited to perform material chosen from specific productions. These help directors see the performers in the specific roles they’re being considered for.
“Just know that we’re all rooting for you. The other side of the table is so nice and so kind and really is just on the lookout for the best people to fit what they are looking for. Just show up and be your best,” said Cajilig.
The lineup for the fall 2024 production season includes four productions. SUU’s mainstage will produce “Titus Andronicus” and “Chicago” the musical. Second Studio will be producing the play “12 Angry Jurors” and the musical “Alice By Heart.”
“It feels isolating during audition season,” Cajilig stated. “You’re wondering if anybody’s gonna show up and show off in the way you’re planning on it, and everybody does. And that is something that I thought was so awesome and so admirable about everybody in their auditions.”
Author: Shay Wilkey
Photos courtesy of Second Studio
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
arts@suunews.net