Welcome! We hope you will audition for a Sunset show!
Every season, we hold auditions for our eight Furlan Auditorium and our two After Sunset productions and EVERYONE is welcome to try out for all shows!
Sunset Playhouse prides itself in being Wisconsin’s premiere community theater.
Join Us!
Announcing our 2023 JR Musical Audition Series – Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR
Auditions are available for students entering grades 7–12 for the 2023–24 academic school year.
ALL STUDENTS interested in being cast in LITTLE MERMAID JR must audition. Actors must be available for ALL tech rehearsals and performances to be cast.
Tuition of $225 will be assessed upon the acceptance of a role – There is NO FEE to audition.
PLEASE NOTE: Thank you so much for your interest in auditioning for our School for the Arts Summer performance: Disney’s Little Mermaid JR. We are so excited and honored that the response and interst has been so robust for our summer musical. Currently, our audition sign up is full. We are investigating all options for audition opportunities. But first, we want to keep track of individuals who are interested in obtaining an audition opportunity. Please complete this form to add yourself to the auditon wait list. We will be contacting everyone as we get closer to the auditions date. Let us know if you have any questions. Thank you.
Audition Date:
June 15, 2023
6–9 PM
Actors are asked to stay for the whole audition time.
Rehearsals:
First Rehearsal
June 27 @ 6–8 PM
Remaining Schedule
Monday – Thursday
July 10 – August 3
4–6:30 PM
Tech Rehearsals (no conflicts allowed):
August 6 @ 5:30–9 PM
August 7, 8, 9, 10 @ 6–9 PM
Performances (no conflicts):
August 11 @ 7:30 PM
August 12 @ 7:30 PM
August 13 @ 2 PM
What to do:
Register for the audition by clicking HERE
Complete the audition form by Wednesday, June 14 @ 12:00 by using this link: https://forms.gle/jF4r2JX5dRrHXSPi6
Complete the conflict form by Wednesday, June 14 @ 12:00 by using this link: https://forms.gle/6ARohy6Lc4QjmRYF9
What to prepare for the audition:
- Part of Your World – measures 38 – 68
- Poor Unfortunate Souls – measures 4 – 36 Please sing all parts as one (Ursula, Flotsam & Jetsam)
- Under the Sea – measures 9 – 40
Sheet music and rehearsal/backing tracks are available here.
If you have any questions, please contact Erika Navin, Director of Education, at enavin@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 290
***Please note this opportunity is different from our School for the Arts Fall & Winter JR Musical sessions where students register and all who register are cast – acceptance into this production is audition based***
DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMRAID JR
Journey “under the sea” with Ariel and her aquatic friends in Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR, adapted from Disney’s Broadway production and the motion picture (featuring the enormously popular Academy Award-winning music and delightfully charming book and lyrics). Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories, Disney’s The Little Mermaid JR is an enchanting look at the sacrifices we all make for love and acceptance.
In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home—and her fins—behind and live in the world above. But first, she’ll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking.
JUNE 13, 2023
4:30–7:30 PM
Sign up for an audition slot using this link
Students enrolling in 9th–12th grade for the 2023–2024 academic year AND students who graduated from high school in 2023 can audition for our Summer Stars Broadway Cabaret.
Audition:
Prepare 32 bars of a Broadway musical song that you would want to perform at the Cabaret. The piece you audition with will most likely be the piece you will perform. Bring a copy of the music for the music director to use at the audition. Bring a completed copy of this audition form with you to auditions.
DATES
June 20 or 27 rehearsal:
4:30–7:30 PM
Sign up for 30 minute time slot
July 6 group rehearsal
4:30–7:30 PM
All attend
July 8
10 AM–1 PM
Tech rehearsal
July 9
1 PM call time
2 PM & 4 PM performance
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
DAD’S SEASON TICKETS – September 7 – 24, 2023.
Join us for the WORLD community theater premiere of this wonderful Packers musical.
Auditions: July 10 & 12, 2023 at 7PM (arrival 6:30PM)
Call backs: July 13, 2023 at 7PM (arrival 6:30PM)
- First Rehearsal: July 17, 2023
- Tech: September 2–6, 2023
- Performances: September 7–24, 2023
- Director – Michael Pocaro
- Music Director – Mark Mrozek
- Choreographer – Karl Miller
- Stage Manager – Christine White
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. - You will also need to reserve an audition spot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Please prepare a 32-bar song (no longer please) in the style of the show. Bring sheet music. There will be an accompanist that will play your selection for you. No tracks or a capella auditions will be allowed.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 6:30PM to be ready for the 7PM start.
- You will sing first, based on the order of arrival.
- After the vocal auditions are complete, you may be asked to read from the script.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show. Rehearsals over Labour Day weekend will be required
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
DAD’S SEASON TICKETS Synopsis:
A musical comedy celebrating family, folly and football.
Which of Frank’s three daughters will inherit his treasured season tickets? The Kosinski sisters employ every trick in the playbook. From kick off to the final Hail Mary, it’s anyone’s game. To reach the end zone, our home team must first relearn that family isn’t everything; it’s the only thing.
Sunset Playhouse is honored to be the first community theater in the WORLD to present DAD’S SEASON TICKETS!
A musical comedy for football fanatics and the people who love them.
Cast of characters (ages are flexible)
Frank Kosinski: Patriarch of the Kosinski family, age 61. Father of Rhonda, Gabby, and Cordy. Lifelong
Packer season-ticket holder and fan. He is unfailingly positive, even in the face of the near constant
familial strife
Cordy Kosinski: Frank’s youngest daughter, 17. She is a bright, ambitious high school senior who more
often than not finds herself caught between her warring older sisters. Her full name is Cordelia, but she
prefers to go by Cordy.
Rhonda Kafura: Frank’s eldest daughter, 37. She is stubborn and opinionated. She prefers hosting and
entertaining for her family to actually watching Packer games with them.
Ralph Kafura: Rhonda’s Packer-loving husband, 40. He possesses a bevy of football and Packers
knowledge, which becomes an asset to his wife as the story unfolds. He has a lucky jersey he always
wears on game day. Always. It gets smellier as the show progresses.
Gabby Nimwitz: Frank’s middle daughter, 32. She is loud and brash, and prides herself on being the
family’s biggest Packer fan. She is very pregnant to start the show.
Edgar Nimwitz: Gabby’s husband, 35. He is mild-mannered and studious, very much the antithesis of his
wife. He is an adjunct English professor at UWGB, and harbors a dark secret.
Announcer*: An omnipresent voice that provides time specific transitional material, as well as in-game
commentary (both real and imagined) throughout the course of the play. *Note: this role is intended to be pre-recorded and programmed.
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
BLITHE SPIRIT – October 19–November 5, 2023
Auditions: August 21-22, 2023
Call backs: August 23, 2023
First Rehearsal: September 5, 2023
Light Hang: October 7, 2023
Actors on stage: October 9, 2023
Tech: October 15-18, 2023
First Call October 16, 2023
Tech/dress October 15-19, 2023
Performances: October 19 -November 5, 2023
Production Team
Director – Dustin J. Martin
Stage Manager – Pam Seccombe
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. - You will also need to reserve an audition spot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Audition slots will be 45 minutes each with groups of 10.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15-minutes before your scheduled audition slot.
- After the audition time slot is complete, you may be asked to stay for additional reading.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
A smash comedy hit in London and New York, this much-revived classic from the playwright of Private Lives concerns fussy, cantankerous novelist Charles Condomine, who has remarried but finds himself haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, Elvira. Clever, insistent and well aware of Charles’ shortcomings, Elvira is called up by a visiting “happy medium,” the eccentric and flighty Madame Arcati. As everyone’s personalities clash, Charles’ current wife, Ruth, is accidentally killed. She “passes over” and joins Elvira, allowing the two “blithe spirits” to haunt the hapless Charles into perpetuity.
Cast of Characters (age ranges are flexible)
CHARLES CONDOMINE: (40-50) Charles is an intelligent and urbane English novelist. Charles is the husband of Ruth Condomine and deceased first wife, Elvira.
RUTH CONDOMINE: (30-40) A smart looking woman who is the wife of Charles. She is a bit jealous of Charles’s relationship with his first wife.
DR. BRADMAN (40-60) A pleasant-looking middle-aged man, Dr. Bradman is a friend of the Condomines.
MRS. BRADMAN (40-60) The wife of Dr. Bradman, Mrs. Bradman is middle-aged and a bit faded.
MADAME ARCATI (40-70): A spiritualist, Madame Arcati is a striking woman. She is not too extravagant but has a definite bias towad the barbaric.
ELVIRA (25-35): Charles Condomine’s deceased first wife, Elvira returns as a ghost with a goal. In the process, she makes Charles’s and Ruth’s lives very complicated.
EDITH (25-50): The Condomine’s maid, Edith is always in a hurry.
2023-24 Season THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL – Nov. 30-Dec. 17, 2023
Auditions:
September 24, 2023 – 5-10 PM – Children ONLY – ages 9-14 – All children must be available to audition on this date or from 6-8PM on September 25th to be considered for the show. (If all slots fill up, a waiting list will be established.)
September 25 – 6-8PM – Children ONLY – ages 9-14 – limited to 20 Slots
September 25 – 8–10PM Adults – limited to 40 –(ages 18 and up)
September 27 – 7-10PM – Adults only (ages 18 and up)
Callbacks: September 28, 2023 – 6-10PM
First Rehearsal: October 9, 2023
First Dress: November 26, 2023
First Call: November 27, 2023
Tech/Dress: November 25-29, 2023
Performances: November 30-December 17, 2023
Director/Choreographer –Karl Miller
Music Director – Mark Mrozek
Stage Manager – Christine White
AUDITION INFORMATION
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (this link will be live on August 15, 2023) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot. Children may only register for the 6-10PM Sunday, September 24th audition slot or the 6-8PM Monday, September 25th audition slot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (this link will be live on August 15, 2023) - Children auditioning for this show should have at least 1-year of acting classes and/or on-stage experience.
- If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Children and Adults: please prepare a 24-bar song (no longer please) in the style of the show. Bring sheet music – one sided copy in a binder. There will be an accompanist that will play your selection for you. No tracks or acapella auditions will be allowed.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 30 minutes before the scheduled audition time.
- Everyone will dance first and then sing (in order of arrival.)
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM
IMPORTANT INFORMATION – PLEASE READ
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show. Rehearsals over Thanksgiving weekend will be required for all.
- Parents/guardians of children cast in the show will be required to serve as back-stage chaperones/child helpers for 2 performances per each child from your family that is cast during the dress rehearsals and actual performances.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
The Herdmans are the worst kids in the history of the world. When they crash Sunday school and demand parts in the Christmas pageant, the whole town panics. There’s not supposed to be biting or cigar-smoking in Bethlehem, and while these kids have never even heard the Christmas story, they definitely have rewrites!
Soon everyone is calling for reluctant director Grace Bradley to cancel the whole thing.
It’s up to the Bradleys and the Reverend to help their community see the Christmas story and the Herdman kids through new eyes in this joyous musical adaptation of the funny and touching holiday classic.
“One of the best Christmas stories ever – and certainly one of the funniest.” – The Seattle Times
Cast of Characters (upper age ranges for kids are flexible, lower age range in not – 9 years old is the minimum audition age)
The Herdmans
Ralph – 13-14 – The oldest and coolest. He’s the enforcer.
Imogene – 12-14 – Leader of the Herdmans. She’s loud, bossy, and crafty.
Leroy – 11-13 – Ralph’s backup. Very confident in the muscle department.
Claude – 10-12 – Scrappy and smart.
Ollie – 9-10 – A bit of a naïve urchin who follows the older boys’ leads.
Gladys – 9-10 – Little but fierce. Nothing scares Gladys.
The Bradleys
Grace – 35-40ish – Sweet, good-humored, slightly frazzled mom.
Bob – 35-40ish – Easygoing dad, wry sense of humor.
Charlie – 10-12 – Typical kid brother, says what he thinks.
Beth – 11-14 – Charlie’s older and wiser sister. She’s honest and kind.
The Friends
Alice Wendleken – 11-14 – Know-it-all. She thinks she’s perfect.
Elmer Hopkins – 10-12 – Preacher’s kid, which means he needs to behave and be nice.
Teddy Shoemaker – 9-11 – Wimpy kid with glasses, asks too many questions.
Ivy Reed – 11-14 – Beth’s earnest friend who is sometimes a goody-goody.
The Adults
Helen Armstrong – 40-60ish – Organized steamroller. She’s always in charge.
Reverend Hopkins – 40-60ish – Occasionally befuddled, always well-meaning.
Luanne – 35-50ish – Sassy, tells it like it is.
Betty – 30–50ish – Sweet southerner, calls everyone “honey.”
Connie – 30-50ish – Direct, no-nonsense type.
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
A FOX ON THE FAIRWAY – January 18-February 4, 2024
Auditions: November 13-14, 2024
Callbacks November 15, 2024
First Rehearsal: November 27, 2023
Tech Week: January 13-17, 2024
Performances: January 18 – February 4, 2024
Director – Brian Zelinski
Stage Manager – Pam Seccombe
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (Form available September 12, 2023) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Link available September 12, 2023) - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Audition slots will be 45 minutes each with groups of 10.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15-minutes before your scheduled audition slot.
- After the audition time slot is complete, you may be asked to stay for additional reading.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
HENRY BINGHAM (40s-50s): Director of the Quail Valley Country Club. He is witty and cynical at times, much like Basil Fawlty from Fawlty Towers. He gets into a high-stakes bet on a golf tournament and is determined to do what it takes to win. He is also unhappy in his marriage to Muriel and becomes involved with Pamela.
PAMELA PEABODY (30s-40s): A member of the Quail Valley Country Club. She is very attractive and sophisticated, but a bit loose and a bit of a drinker. Throughout the play she aids Bingham in his plans to make sure their club wins.
JUSTIN HICKS (20s-30s): Bingham’s new eager-to-please assistant who volunteers his services as a golfer to help Quail Valley win the golf tournament. He is romantically involved with Louise and proposes to her early on, but becomes emotionally distraught when things become difficult between them.
LOUISE HEINDBEDDER (20s-30s): A waitress at the Quail Valley Country Club. She is very attractive, and a bit flighty, but studious. She gets engaged to Justin early on, but a mishap results in her becoming very upset over their future together, making her cry at a moment’s notice.
DICKIE BELL (40s-50s): The director of the rival Crouching Squirrel Country Club, with whom Bingham gets into a high-stakes bet. He is a bit obnoxious, including his fashion sense, but tries to come off as good-natured. He is Pamela’s ex and has a thing for Bingham’s wife Muriel.
MURIEL BINGHAM (40s-50s): Bingham’s wife, who runs an antique shop, which becomes part of the bet between Henry and Dickie. Generally overbearing and stern, she somehow has a soft spot for Dickie.
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
THE SAVANNAH SIPPING SOCIETY – February 29 – March 17, 2024
Auditions: November 27-28, 2023
Callbacks November 29, 2023
First Rehearsal: January 15, 2024
Tech: February 24-28, 2024
First Call/Dress February 26, 2024 Performances: February 29 – March 17, 2024
Director – Donna Daniels
Stage Manager – Merry Jaeger
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (Form available September 12, 2023) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Link available September 12, 2023) - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Audition slots will be 45 minutes each with groups of 10.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15-minutes before your scheduled audition slot.
- After the audition time slot is complete, you may be asked to stay for additional reading.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
Over the course of six months, filled with laughter, hilarious misadventures, and the occasional liquid refreshment, these middle-aged women successfully bond and find the confidence to jumpstart their new lives. Together, they discover lasting friendships and a renewed determination to live in the moment—and most importantly, realize it’s never too late to make new old friends.
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR – April 18-May 5, 2024
Auditions: January 29 & 31, 2024
Callbacks February 1, 2024
First Rehearsal: February 19, 2024
Dress April 13-17, 2024
Performances: April 18 -May 5, 2024
Director – Tommy Lueck
Music Director – Mark Mrozek
Choreographer – Abby Rasmussen
Stage Manager – Samantha Carr
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM.(Form available January 16, 2024) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot. (50 slots per night available)
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Link available January 16, 2024) - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Please prepare a 32-bar song (no longer please) in the style of the show. Bring sheet music in a binder. There will be an accompanist that will play your selection for you. No tracks or a capella auditions will be allowed.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 6:30PM to be ready for the 7PM start.
- You will sing first, based on the order of arrival and then all will dance.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
What’s the buzz? The first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 50 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Superstar follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life.
The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire.
The iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.” A true global phenomenon and perfect pick for schools, community theaters and professionals alike, Superstar continues to touch new generations of audiences and performers.
Cast (ages flexible)
| Jesus of Nazareth | Rock Tenor, must command the stage with power and calmness |
| Judas Iscariot | Rock Tenor, Narrator of the story, strong singer, dancer and actor |
| Mary Magdalene | Belt/soprano, must sing very well |
| King Herod | Character voice |
| Caiaphas | Bass, strong singer |
| Peter | Strong rock singer |
| Pontius Pilate | Baritone, strong actor and singer with a lot of emotion |
| Simon Zealotes | Rock singer with very high belting notes |
| Annas | Conspiring priest with Caiaphas, must sing very well |
| 3 Priests | Must sing harmony very well |
| Apostles | Must sing harmony very well and move, they also will be part of the ensemble |
| Judas’s Tormentors | Non-singing, but must be excellent dancers, they follow Judas throughout the entire show |
| Ensemble | Reporters, Temple Ladies, Soul Girls, Lepers, Merchants and Soldiers |
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
REHEARSAL FOR MURDER – May 30-June 16, 2024
Auditions: April 1 & 2, 2024
Callbacks: April 3, 2024
First Rehearsal: April 15, 2024
Tech: May 25-29, 2024
First Call: May 27, 2024
Performances: May 30 – June 16, 2024
Director – Carol Dolphin
Stage Manager – Jennifer Allen and Merry Jaeger
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (Form available January 16, 2024) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Link available January 16, 2023) - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Audition slots will be 45 minutes each with groups of 10.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15-minutes before your scheduled audition slot.
- After the audition time slot is complete, you may be asked to stay for additional reading.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Contact Brooke Olson at bolson@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.
Synopsis
A thrilling “theatrical” mystery. The playwright turns on the stage work light and prepares for the first reading of his new play. The actors, producer, director, and others connected with the show come onto the stage, and under their humorous theatrical talk, tension grows. We discover that everyone connected with this play was involved with another play by the same playwright. At its opening night, exactly a year ago and in this same theater, the beautiful leading lady, who was also the playwright’s fiancée, was murdered!
As the actors read the new play, startling connections to the murder begin to unfold. The growing tension reaches the boiling point with surprising revelations. The dazzling, yet basically logical twists build to a climax and solution that are theatrically stunning!
Cast (ages are flexible)
Alex Dennison: (40s-50s) A playwright, Alex is handsome, debonair, witty, intelligent, and willing to do just about anything to trap the killer of his
beloved fiancé. Must be able to express the
full range of emotions as well: being in love, grief, vengeance, desperation, etc.
Monica Welles. (30s-40s) The famous and beautiful film actress, fiancé of Alex, and victim. Although Monica dies early in the play, she is “brought to life” through flashbacks in order to help Alex trap her killer.
when she met her early demise. Must be able to
express the full range of emotions: being in love, fear, desperation, disdain, etc.
Lloyd Andrews. (40s-60s) The play’s director for the Alex’s show Chamber Music. He is handsome, although a bit nerdy.
Bella Lamb. (40s-60s) The play’s producer for the show Chamber Music. Bella is bright, extremely wealthy, glamorous, and sophisticated. She is extremely confident!
Karen Daniels. (30s) An up-and-coming Broadway actress when the play begins, Karen is now a sought-after star. She was Monica’s understudy a year prior in
Chamber Music, but she quickly reached her way to the top. She is beautiful and no longer the innocent ingenue she was. She starts the show meek and mild, but then shows herself to be ambitious and conniving.
David Mathews. (40s-60s) A popular and handsome Broadway actor, David is also very smug and full of himself, believing that every woman worships him. He
approaches each show with the belief that he’ll have to dust off his fireplace mantle for another Tony.
Leo Gibbs. (40s-50s) A supporting Broadway actor, Leo is a tad awkward, & obnoxious, especially around Karen,
Sally Bean.(18-25) Young, energetic, bright but naïve. A
bit ditzy, and wide-eyed at the Big Apple.
Frank Heller (30s-50s)An observer in Act One to everything occurring on-stage during the present and “flashbacks” Frank, however, intervenes in Act Two, at first portraying Lieutenant McElroy, the detective who closed the Monica Welles’ case, and then
himself. A jack-of-all-trades: actor (often out of work), bartender, cab driver, etc.
The Following Roles can be doubled as needed.
Ernie. Male. Any age. The gruff, no-nonsense backstage theatre manager who reveres Alex and was genuinely fond of Monica.
Loretta Any age. The play’s stage manager for Chamber Music (and the last time Monica was on stage). She is very efficient and determined.
Policeman/Policewoman Any age. Assist in
the investigation of Monica’s death.
Santoro: Any age. The delivery man who brings in Monica’s Study – set up exactly as it was on the day of her death and perfect for a re-enactment.
Sunset Playhouse 2023-24 Season
A CHORUS LINE – July 11-August 4, 2024
Auditions: May 13 & 15, 2024
Call Backs May 16, 2024
First Rehearsal: May 20, 2024
Tech: July 7-10, 2024
Dress/First Call: July 8, 2024
Performances: July 11 – August 4, 2024
Director/Choreographer – Karl Miller
Music Director – Mark Mrozek
Stage Manager – Christine White
Audition Information
- All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet for the auditions. We prefer you print the form out in advance, complete it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make you check in process go much faster.
CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM.(Form available March 5, 2024) - You will also need to reserve an audition spot. (50 slots per night available)
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Link available March 5, 2024) - If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
- Everyone will dance first. Please dress for a dance audition.
- After everyone has danced the singing audition will follow. Please prepare a 32-bar song (no longer please) in the style of the show. Bring sheet music in a binder. There will be an accompanist that will play your selection for you. No tracks or a capella auditions will be allowed.
- On the night of your audition, please arrive at 6:30PM to be ready for the 7PM start.
- Please be prepared to stay until 10PM
Important Information – Please read
- You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show.
Cast – (18 and over – no one under 18 will be allowed to audition – Strong dancer/singers needed – ages flexible as long as older than 18)
ZACH: (30-40)The director and choreographer of the show.
LARRY: (20s-30s) Zach’s assistant.
ALAN DELUCA: (20s-30s) Baritone. From the Bronx. Very straight. Street tough, macho, newly married to Kristine.
BEBE BENZENHEIMER: (20s-30s) Alto. From Boston. Very insecure about her looks, very funny which is a cover for her insecurities. Feels a little bit excluded but just wants to be liked.
BOBBY MILLS: (20s-30s) Baritone. Flamboyant, funny, and witty. Very sharp tongued. Covers everything
over with a joke, had a very hard childhood. From upstate New York.
CASSIE FERGUSON: (25-30s) Soprano. Older Dancer. Returning to the chorus after years of being a
featured performer. Very strong dancer. Shy & kind hearted. Previously had a relationship with Zach.
CONNIE WONG: (20s-30s) Alto. Experienced dancer. Short. Married. A bit of a mother hen with a great
sense of humor. Born in Chinatown, Lower East Side, New York.
DIANA MORALES: (20s-30s) Alto. Streetwise, a little bit tough, eternal optimist and starry eyed. A determined athletic dancer from the Bronx.
DON KERR: (20s-30s) Baritone. Ladies’ man, married, into cars, money, and women. Hedonist, cool, flirts
with Maggie, very sure of himself. All American guy, cocky, worked with Zach before. From Kansas City.
GREGORY GARDENER: (30s) Baritone. Over sexed, over drugged, done it all before. Very conscious of
how he looks and appears to others. Quite a smart-alec and has worked with Zach before. Very East Side New York.
JUDY TURNER: (20s-30s) Mezzo. Funny, gawky, nervous, scatterbrain. Warm and hopeful. Very awkward
except when dancing.
KRISTINE URICH: (20s) Mezzo. Wide-eyed, naïve. Very nervous when not dancing. Married to Al.
MAGGIE WINSLOW: (20s-30s) Soprano. A sweetheart, little sister type. Dreamer. Fairly experienced
dancer from California.
MARK ANTHONY: (20s) Tenor. Optimistic, first timer, naïve but charming. Great dancer and All American kid. Hopeful and fresh. Very young from Arizona.
MIKE COSTA: (20s-30s)Tenor. Quite aggressive, determined, cocky, sure of himself but likeable. Tap dancer who worked with Zach before. Experienced and flirts with the girls. From New Jersey.
PAUL SAN MARCO: (20s) Baritone. Introverted and slightly insecure but loves performing-is only now
starting to feel comfortable about being gay and accepted by his parents. From Spanish Harlem, New York. Friends with Diana.
RICHIE WALTERS: (20s-30s) Tenor. From Missouri. African American, strong dancer, enthusiastic, cool and
funny. Very likeable and laid back.
SHEILA BRYANT: (30s-40s) Alto. Oldest dancer on the line. Brassy, sexy, sassy and sophisticated. One of
the more popular dancers, very funny.
VALERIE CLARK: (20s-30s) Mezzo. Sexy, sassy, funny & foul-mouthed. A brazen, direct, attention seeker from Vermont.
AUDITION DANCERS: 2 males and 3 females (18-35) will understudy and sing throughout the show
SUNSET PLAYHOUSE SEARCHING FOR PROFESSIONAL SINGERS AND RISING STARS FOR ITS MUSICAL MAINSTAGE CONCERT SERIES
Sunset Playhouse will hold auditions for its professional Musical MainStage Concert Series in May, 2024 at the Playhouse, 700 Wall Street in Elm Grove. Date to be determined in January, 2024.
Musical MainStage is a series of six concerts requiring four professional singers and one Rising Star per show. Styles needed for its 2024-24 season include rock, pop, standards, folk, jazz, and soul. Rehearsals are minimal and performances take place on Mondays and Tuesdays. Students who will be enrolled in any area high school from September, 2023 – June, 2024 are eligible to be named a Rising Star. All singers should bring 32 bars of sheet music in their key; an accompanist will be provided.
Please sign up for one audition spot beginning in January of 2024. You will provide us with a valid phone number and email (this information will be discarded after auditions and not used for any other purposes.) Candidates should fill out either a RISING STAR Audition Sheet or a PROFESSIONAL Audition Sheet. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled audition time with a copy of your completed audition form and sheet music in your key, plus a resume and head shot if you have one. If you need to cancel, please do so as early as possible on this site.
FAQ for PROS:
Q: I’ve auditioned in the past, can I come in again?
A: If you’ve auditioned previously or appeared in a previous Musical MainStage production, we do NOT need to see you again.
Q: Is this paid?
A: Professional performers will receive a stipend.
Q: When will I be notified?
A: All auditioners will be notified via email by June 30th
FAQ for RISING STARS:
Q: I’ve auditioned in the past; can I come in again?
A: It is not necessary if you’ve been seen before but if you would like to try again, you may.
Q: Am I eligible?
A: If you are, or will be, enrolled in any area high school (including home or online) from September, 2023-June, 2024.
Q: Can duets or small groups audition?
A: Yes, but no more than four people; all should be singers.
Q: Will Sunset have music available to those auditioning?
A: No, singers must bring their own sheet music. 32 bars (no more than 1 minute) in your key and please do NOT read the music off your phone!
Q: If the singer doesn’t have music, can they sing a capella or bring recorded music?
A: A capella is not recommended for professional auditions. No recorded music!
Q: What kind of song should I sing?
A: 32 bars of whatever song best shows off your voice, something you can sing with confidence. We’re looking for all styles—rock, pop, standards, country, folk, and jazz.
Q: Is this an audition for a musical—one of the main stage shows?
A: No, this is for our concert series featuring professional singers and musicians.
Q: How much rehearsing is involved?
A: Rehearsals take place on Monday evenings. Three rehearsals starting a month before the show, plus one tech rehearsal on Sunday. Since there are only four, performers must also work on their own.
Q: Are Rising Stars paid?
A: Not in dollars, but it’s an opportunity to work in a professional environment and gain knowledge, confidence, and exposure. Each Rising Star also receives two comps for opening night, and several have later received college scholarship monies.
Q: When will those chosen be notified?
A: Everyone who auditions, whether selected or not, will receive email notification by June 30th.
Q: What if I’m sick or can’t make it.
A: Please cancel online. For last-minute cancellations, please send an email to: susandloveridge@gmail.com.
