About Nontraditional Auditioning

NEYT is thrilled to be adopting a nontraditional auditioning process involving two workshop days of connection and play. Without the pressure of a traditional audition, participants will be engaged in a variety of games and exercises that build ensembles while also allowing each individual’s authentic self to shine through. This may also involve playing with text/scenes from the script. This process reveals social emotional skills such as listening, collaborating, awareness, vulnerability, and leadership which enables the NEYT artistic team to cast a dynamic ensemble. Our intention is to center mental well-being while also providing a creative opportunity that is inclusive, equitable, and community-centered.

Casting workshops for musicals will have a dance or somatic movement component. Participants should wear clothing they feel comfortable moving in. A group singing component will be included, where participants learn a small portion of a song and share it back as a solo, small, and/or large groups. Participants are encouraged to attend both days of the casting workshop, as it allows an additional opportunity to put their best foot forward.

Participants do not need to prepare anything ahead of time. To further accessibility, we welcome you to reach out and ask to view any casting materials that will be in play during auditions if that would be supportive for you.

Acknowledgement of Disappointment

Firstly, we want to take a moment and celebrate any student that is courageous enough to audition! You’ve arrived and that is a huge feat! Several times every year anticipation, excitement, nervousness, and sometimes, disappointment comes to many of those auditioning. The fact of the matter is auditions will never seem fair to everyone. Please know that NEYT takes mindful consideration with how we audition and present casting information to our community.

How one reacts to disappointment is a tremendous test of character. Although disappointment is painful, it can bring about a new understanding of self. When disappointment comes your way, whether it is in auditioning or in another area of your life, take a deep breath, open your eyes, feel your feelings and then allow them to pass. In whatever part you received, you matter. Producing theater takes a village in which everyone is equally important. Whether you are on stage, in the wings on tech crew, backstage on costume crew or in the audience! We are all contributing to the creative force that makes NEYT the magical place it is for growth and youth empowerment.