Auditions for Little Theatre musical set
The production team is looking to cast at least one actor in each role but is considering several casting options including multiple casts splitting the eight performances.
Auditions for the 2025 Winter Black Box Production, “The Last Five Years,” will be held Sunday and Monday, Nov. 3 and 4 from 6-9 p.m. at the Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County. Callbacks will be Wednesday, Nov. 6 if necessary. Performance dates are Thursday, Jan. 9 through Sunday, Jan. 19.
Artistic Director Mary Maxwell said those interested in auditioning must sign up for a time and fill out online forms using tinyurl.com/mvetzaez and forms.gle/sMUqLXFDAaA9FQT8.
Resumes and headshots may be attached to the online audition form, and acting resumes will be accepted at auditions. Maxwell said due to the required characterizations and the content of the show, auditionees must be 18 or older.
“Those auditioning should prepare two songs, 32 bar cuts,” Maxwell said, “one from the score of the show and one from a different contemporary musical. Songs should make it clear how you would characterize the main characters at their highest and lowest, showcasing your vocal range. Auditionees should also prepare sides that are available on Little Theatre’s website and Facebook page.”
Maxwell called the production by Jason Robert Brown an emotionally powerful and intimate musical about two New Yorkers in their 20s who fall in and out of love over the course of five years. She said the show’s unconventional structure consists of Cathy, the woman, telling her story backward while Jamie, the man, tells his chronologically. The two characters only meet once, at their wedding in the middle of the show.
“It is essential for those auditioning to recognize this production values not only vocal prowess, but also the ability to embody endearing, genuine characters capable of conveying a story musically,” Maxwell said. “The characters’ ability to resonate with the audience as a couple and as individuals is crucial for the show’s emotional impact. Both roles are highly vocally demanding and require much vocal stamina.”
Cathy Hiatt’s character requires a 25- to 35-year-old mezzo-soprano/pop/theater singer. Her vocal range typically extends from G below middle C to D or Eb5. Her songs require a strong mix/belt voice and capability of higher belts. She is a struggling actress, characterized by her emotional depth and vulnerability.
Jamie Wellerstein, also in the 25-35 age range, is a tenor with vocal range extending from A below middle C to Bb4. His songs demand an excellent upper range. His character is a talented, charming and rising novelist.
Maxwell said, “The production team is looking to cast at least one actor in each role, but we are considering several casting options including multiple casts splitting the eight performances.”
Her production team so far consists of Jennica Cochran, assistant director; Daelyn Carpenter, stage manager; and Josie McCutcheon, producer.
“Rehearsals will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, starting Nov. 10,” Maxwell said. “However, given the nature of the show, the schedule will likely reflect the availability of its small cast and live pit. Tech week will begin Sunday, Jan. 5. No rehearsals will be held between Dec. 22 and Jan. 1, unless essential.”
Email Maxwell at marycate1996@gmail.com.
The Little Theatre is located at 466 Carrie Ave. NW in New Philadelphia.