Audition

We are often asked for audition tips before and after Sunset auditions so here are some suggestions from our 
Furlan Directors, and Musical MainStage / SideNotes Producers.    
Click HERE for audition tips!

Sunset Playhouse will hold auditions for its professional Musical MainStage Concert Series from 3PM – 8PM on May 21, 2026 at the Playhouse, 700 Wall Street in Elm Grove.

Musical MainStage is a series of six concerts requiring four professional singers and one Rising Star per show. Rehearsals are minimal and performances take place on Mondays and Tuesdays. 

Students who will be enrolled in any area high school from September, 2026 – June, 2027 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.

Sign up to reserve your audition slot HERE 

Print an ADULT audition form HERE 

Print a STUDENT/RISING STAR audition form HERE

Audition questions please email Christine White: cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

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, 2026-June, 2027.

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 acapella or bring recorded music?
A: Acapella 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, and Broadway.

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.

Have you ever wanted to practice auditioning without the pressure of a real audition? Maybe you want to see how that new cut sounds with a pianist. Or you want to prepare for a specific future auditions. or perhaps you just love the thrill of a music audition!

Whatever your needs are, you can attend mock audition workshop at Sunset Playhouse for a chance to sing through any piece of music in a realistic audition setting.

Bring up to 32 bars of sheet music (about 1.5-2 minutes) for the accompanist and get ready to sing your heart out! Constructive feedback , if desired, will be provided after you sing. 

Cost:  $5.00 paid at time of audition (cash)

Date: TBD
Time:  6:00PM – TBD
Slots: 15-minutes each 
Where: Sunset Playhouse Studio
Workshop Leaders:  Riley Luettgen & Mark Mrozek

Sign up link to follow.

This Vocal Workshop is for anyone and everyone ages 18 and up.

Information to be announced in spring of 2026.  See you then!

Show 1 LEND ME A TENOR – 2026-27 Season
Performances: September 10-27, 2026

LEND  A TENOR  – Sept 10-27, 2026
Auditions:, July 13 & 14, 2026 / Call backs:  July 15, 2026
First Rehearsal: July 20, 2025
Tech: September:   5-9, 2026

Performances: September 10-27, 2026   

Director: Michael Pocaro
Click HERE to sign up to audition for LEND ME A TENOR (available soon)

Click HERE to print your Audition Form (available soon)

Audition Information/Sign up links: TBD

Notes:

• Arrive 15 minutes before your audition slot.
• If possible, please print and complete your audition in advance.
• If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.

Important Information – Please read

• You must be available for EVERY performance to be cast in this show. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

Synopsis: 

Saunders, manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, is ready to welcome world-famous tenor Tito Merelli for a one-night-only performance. But when the singer arrives late and accidentally takes a double dose of tranquilizers, he passes out cold.

Believing he’s dead, Saunders and the assistant hatch a plan: Max must disguise himself as Tito and perform in his place. Max pulls it off—until Tito wakes up and puts on the same costume, ready to go on stage! With two identical “Il Stupendos” running around, confused lovers, and mistaken identities galore, the madness escalates into a hilarious farce.

Characters: (ages are flexible)
Henry Saunders (50–70) the ambitious and stressed general manager of the Cleveland Grand Opera Company, trying to ensure a successful night at the opera

Max (20–40) Saunders’ nervous assistant, caught in a whirlwind of mistaken identities and panic

Tito Merelli (30–60) a world-famous Italian opera star, temperamental but charming, known as “Il Stupendo”

Maggie Saunders (20–30) Saunders’ romantic and frustrated daughter who becomes entangled in the chaos
Maid to Tito

Maria (20–50) Tito’s jealous wife, fiery and suspicious, often mistaken in the confusion

Diana Clark (20–30) a glamorous soprano and Max’s love interest, who dreams of opera stardom

Julia (30–60) a board member and Saunders’ wife, who becomes suspicious and increasingly dramatic

The Bellhop (20–40) a hotel employee who gets swept up in the confusion and mistaken identities

Everyone is welcome to audition!

ANNIE – 

Rehearsals: Monday-Friday 7-10PM

• Auditions: August 24 & 25, 27, 2026 – 7PM
  Kids Auditions: August 23, 2026 – 1-5PM / Call backs: August 27, 2026 – 7PM
  First Rehearsal: August 31, 2026
  Tech: October: October 17 – 21, 2026 Performances: October 22 -November 8, 2026    

• • Director – Beth Burrows
    Choreographer – Beth Burrows
    Music Director – Mark Mrozek
    Assistant Music Director – Riley Luettgren
    Stage Manager – Tegan Stager  

All people auditioning will need to complete an ADULT or CHILD (ages 8-15) audition form and bring it to the audition.

• CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR ADULT AUDITION FORM. (available soon)

  
  You will also need to reserve an audition spot. 

  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE ADULT YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (available soon)

• CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR CHILD AUDITION FORM. (available soon) Ages 8 – 15

  
  You will also need to reserve an audition spot. 

  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE CHILD  YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (available soon) Ages 8 – 15
   

• We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition. 

• If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
• Everyone will sing first and then dance. Please wear comfortable clothing for the dance audition.
• Children must be ages 8 – 16 at time of performances
• Please prepare a 32-bar song (2 minutes maximum length) in the style of the show and bring sheet music.
• On the night of your audition, please arrive 1/2hour before scheduled start time to be ready for the audition start.
• 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. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

Synopsis: 

With her boundless optimism, red curls, and unforgettable voice, Little Orphan Annie has charmed audiences for generations.

Set in 1930s New York City, this beloved Broadway classic follows Annie’s journey from the tough life at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage to the lavish home of billionaire Oliver Warbucks. Along the way, she proves that hope, heart, and a little bit of courage can change lives—even during the hardest times.

Featuring iconic songs like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard Knock Life”, Annie is a joyful, family-friendly musical reminder that brighter days are always just around the corner.

Characters: (ages flexible – children must be 8 years old – 15 years old)

PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS

• Annie (11–13) the optimistic, street-smart orphan who dreams of finding her parents and a better life, known for her resilience and hope
• Oliver Warbucks (40–60) a wealthy, powerful businessman who becomes Annie’s adoptive father and gradually softens through her influence
• Miss Hannigan (30–60) the bitter and comedic orphanage matron who dislikes children and often schemes for her own benefit
• Grace Farrell (25–40) Warbucks’ kind, elegant personal secretary who becomes a nurturing maternal figure to Annie
• Rooster Hannigan (25–40) Miss Hannigan’s smooth-talking brother, a con artist looking to exploit Annie for money
• Lily St. Regis (20–30) Rooster’s flashy, dim-witted girlfriend who joins in the scheme for personal gain
• President Franklin D. Roosevelt (50–70) the U.S. president who admires Annie and Warbucks and helps confirm Annie’s identity search
• Sandy (dog, 1–5) a stray dog Annie befriends, symbolizing loyalty and companionship

The Orphans (St. Mark’s Orphanage)

• Molly (8–9) the youngest orphan, sweet and vulnerable, often calling for Miss Hannigan’s attention
• Kate (8–9) a small, cheerful orphan with a gentle personality
• Tessie (8–11) the emotional “crybaby” orphan who frequently says “Oh my goodness!”
• Pepper (10–14) a tough, bossy orphan with a strong personality
• July (10–14) the quietest orphan, often sleepy or withdrawn
• Duffy (10–15) the oldest orphan, somewhat skeptical and observant

Note: We plan to cast 14 orphans – 7 will be the roles listed above and 7 will be orphans/ensemble. These orphans will each understudy one of the named orphans above and perform if the named orphan is unable to do so due to illness, etc. 

Supporting Characters

• Drake (30–70) Warbucks’ formal butler, responsible for maintaining order in the mansion
• Bert Healy (30–60) a cheerful radio host who helps broadcast Annie’s story to the public
• Mrs. Pugh (30–60) Warbucks’ housekeeper, practical and somewhat strict
• Ensemble (18-70) Servants, Boylan Sisters, NYC residents, etc. 

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Information to follow.  Thanks

Rehearsals: Monday-Friday 7-10PM

Director: Brian Zelinski

PRODUCTION TEAM: TBD

All people auditioning will need to complete an audition form and bring it to the audition.

• CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (available soon)

  You will also need to reserve an audition spot. 

  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (available soon)

  We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition. 

• If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
• On the night of your audition, please arrive 15-minutes before your scheduled start time.
• 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. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

Synopsis: 

Anything that can go wrong… does! This side-splitting farce follows the accident-prone thespians of the Cornley Drama Society as they attempt to stage a classic murder mystery—only to face collapsing sets, forgotten lines, and a cast that just can’t seem to stay upright.

With perfectly-timed physical comedy, outrageous mishaps, and nonstop laughter, this hysterical backstage disaster guarantees an evening of pure fun.

Characters: (ages flexible)

Everyone is welcome to audition!

SHOW 5 – ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID

Auditions: November 22 & 23, 2026
Call Backs:  November 24, 2026

Performances: March 4 – March 21, 2027
   Director: Donna Daniels
PRODUCTION TEAM: 
TBD

Audition Information

• All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet.  We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition. 

  IMPORTANT INFORMATION  

•  On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15 minutes before your scheduled slot.
• Be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
• Please be sure to list all conflicts on your audition form.
• You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

SYNOPSIS
Four lifelong friends made a promise in high school to be in each other’s weddings—no matter what. Now, after a few decades, many questionable fashion choices, several disasters involving wedding cake, and more exes than anyone will admit, these women discover that surviving love might be tough… but surviving each other in chiffon is a whole different challenge.

CHARACTERS (ages flexible)

• Libby Ruth Ames (20–30) the romantic and hopeful bride-to-be whose long-awaited wedding sets the story in motion
• Deedra Wingate (20–60) a lively, outspoken friend with a big personality and flair for drama
• Monette Gentry (30–60) a sweet but somewhat insecure woman who has a long history of relationships and is searching for stability
• Charlie Collins (20–30) a free-spirited, adventurous friend who resists traditional expectations and values independence
• Sedalia Ellicott (30–60) a sharp, witty, and sophisticated friend with a dry sense of humor
• Kari Ames (20–40) Libby Ruth’s supportive and down-to-earth sister who helps keep things grounded amid the chaos

  Everyone is welcome to audition.

GODSPELL

Auditions:  February 8 & 10, 2027
Call backs: February 11, 2027
Tech: April 17 21, 2027
Performances April 22 – May 9, 2027

Rehearsals: Monday-Friday 7-10PM

Director: Claire Vock

PRODUCTION TEAM: TBD

All people auditioning will need to complete an audition form and bring it to the audition.

• CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (available soon)

  You will also need to reserve an audition spot.

  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (available soon)

  We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition.

• If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
• Everyone will sing first and then dance. Please wear comfortable clothing for the dance audition.
• Please prepare a 32-bar song (2 minutes max) in the style of the show and bring sheet music.
• 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.
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

Synopsis: 

Bursting with joy, humor, and unforgettable music, GODSPELL reimagines the teachings of Jesus through a vibrant, modern lens that celebrates community, compassion, and connection. Told through a series of playful parables, the show blends comedy, heartfelt storytelling, and iconic songs like “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye,” and “All for the Best.”

Characters: Ages are Flexible

• Jesus (18–35) the central figure, portrayed as a charismatic, joyful teacher who leads the group through parables and lessons about love, kindness, and community
• John the Baptist / Judas (18–40) a dual-role character who first prepares the way for Jesus and later becomes the betrayer, representing both devotion and conflict

• Robin (18–35) energetic and playful, often involved in physical comedy and group storytelling
• Gilmer (18–35) enthusiastic and humorous, frequently takes part in leading parables
• Joanne (18–35) warm and expressive, contributes to ensemble storytelling and musical numbers
• Lamar (18–35) quirky and comedic, known for physical humor and distinctive personality
• Sonia (18–35) gentle and sincere, often adds emotional depth to scenes
• Peggy (18–35) lively and bright, participates actively in songs and group moments
• Jeffrey (18–35) thoughtful and sometimes introspective, balances humor with sincerity
• Herb (18–35) comedic and slightly eccentric, contributes to the playful tone
• Morgan (18–35) imaginative and expressive, often involved in storytelling sequences

 Sunset Playhouse 2026-27

Show 7 -MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS

Auditions: March 8 & 9, 2027
Call Backs: March 10, 2027

First Rehearsal: April 20, 2027 
Tech: May 30-June 3, 2027
Performances: June 4-21, 2027    

 PRODUCTION TEAM:
Director – Carol Dolphin
Stage Manager – Jennifer Allen

Audition Information

• All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an audition information sheet.  We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition. 

CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (available soon)

You will also need to reserve an audition spot. 

CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (Available soon)

• • If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
  • Auditions will consist of reading from the script

IMPORTANT INFORMATION  

•  On the night of your audition, please arrive at 15 minutes before your scheduled slot.
• Be prepared to stay until 10PM if asked.
• Please be sure to list all conflicts on your audition form.
• You must be available for EVERY technical rehearsal (Friday before Opening through Preview Night) and EVERY performance to be cast in this show. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

Synopsis:

A luxurious train hurtles through the winter night and before dawn, a passenger is dead. Trapped by snow and bound by
secrecy, the world’s greatest detective, Hercule Poirot, must untangle a web of alibis, hidden motives, and shocking secrets before the killer strikes again.

As suspicion falls on every elegant traveler aboard the Orient Express, Christie’s most ingenious mystery unfolds in real time, daring the audience to piece together the clues alongside Poirot.

Filled with razor-sharp dialogue, mounting tension, and one of the most famous twists in theatrical history, Murder on the Orient Express is a masterclass in suspense that will keep you guessing until its unforgettable final reveal.

Characters: (ages are flexible)

• Hercule Poirot (50–70) a brilliant, meticulous Belgian detective known for his sharp intellect and keen observation skills
• Monsieur Bouc (50–60) a friend of Poirot and director of the Orient Express line, helpful and somewhat formal
• Mary Debenham (20–30) a composed and self-controlled English governess with a reserved demeanor
• Colonel Arbuthnot (30–50) a proper British military officer, honorable but secretive
• Princess Dragomiroff (60–80) an elderly Russian aristocrat, proud, sharp-tongued, and accustomed to authority
• Hildegarde Schmidt (30–60) the Princess’s loyal German maid, practical and devoted
• Helen Hubbard (40–60) a talkative and seemingly naive American widow with a dramatic personality
• Samuel Ratchett (40–60) a wealthy, menacing American businessman with a mysterious and sinister past
• Hector MacQueen (30–40) Ratchett’s nervous and somewhat unstable secretary
• Edward Henry Masterman (40–60) Ratchett’s reserved and disciplined English valet
• Countess Andrenyi (20–30) a refined and elegant Hungarian noblewoman
• Count Andrenyi (30–40) the Countess’s husband, protective and composed
• Antonio Foscarelli (30–50) a lively and expressive Italian businessman
• Greta Ohlsson (30–50) a kind-hearted Swedish missionary, emotional and sincerePierre Michel (40–60) the train conductor, dutiful and professional

 Contact Christine White at cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com or 262-782-4431, ext. 233 if you have any further audition-related questions.

Everyone is welcome to audition

MUSICAL – MEAN GIRLS
Performances: July 15 – August 8, 2027

Auditions: May 10 & 12, 2027
Note:  Participants must be 18 by the first read through/rehearsal on May 24, 2027, to attend auditions.
Call backs: May 13, 2027
First Rehearsal: May 24, 2027
Tech: July l0-14, 2027
Performances: July 15 – August 8, 2027                         

• • Director – Tommy Lueck
  • Choreographer – Abby Rasmussen
  • Music Director – Mark Mrozek
  • Vocal Director – Riley Luettgen
  • Stage Manager –Brooke Olson

Audition Information

Important Note: due to the large number of people auditioning, please be sure your song selection is 32 bars or less! (about 2 minutes)   If it is longer, we will have to cut you off so we are sure to get through all the people who are singing. 

• All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an  audition information sheet.  We prefer you fill in the form in advance, print it, and bring it with you to the audition – this will make your check in process go much faster. If you don’t have access to a printer, you may complete the form before the start of your audition. 

  CLICK HERE TO PRINT YOUR AUDITION FORM. (available 1/2027)

  You will also need to reserve an audition spot. 

  CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR AUDITION SPOT. (available 1/2027)

• If you have a resume and/or headshot, please bring them to the audition.
• On the night of your audition, please arrive at 6:30PM to be ready for the 7PM start.
• Everyone will sing in order of arrival.
• Please prepare a 32-bar song in the style of the show.
• Bring sheet music.  An accompanist will be provided. 
• When you have finished singing, you are free to leave.
• You will sing and then dance.
• 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. 
• If you have any questions please email Christine White:  cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com.

SYNOPSIS

Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious terrain of suburban Illinois. Thrust into the social jungle of North Shore High, she must quickly learn how popularity works—and what it costs.

So how does Cady rise in the popularity pecking order? By going undercover as an aspiring Plastic. But when the lines between the real Cady and her Plastic self-start to blur, she must find her way back to who she is—and to her true friends.

Packed with biting humor, high-energy dance numbers, and razor-sharp social satire, MEAN GIRLS skewers high school politics while delivering big laughs and surprising heart.

CHARACTERS (Ages are flexible – over 18 – but you must look young for the characters that are in high school.)

Ensemble: (18 and up) . These roles require a wide range of ages and vocal types (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone). Many ensemble members double in multiple small roles.

If you have any questions, please email Christine White at cwhite@sunsetplayhouse.com

Everyone welcome to audition!

Auditions: Date TBD

Callbacks: Date TBD

Rehearsals: TBD

Tech Rehearsals: TBD

Performances: January 8 – 16, 2027

All people auditioning will be asked to fill out an Audition Information Sheet for the auditions; one may fill this out the night of the auditions or ahead of time (form to follow).

Auditions: Info TBD

Callbacks: Info TBD

Director: TBD

Stage Manager: TBD

CHARACTERS: TBD

SYNOPSIS: TBD