2010-2011 Audition Info
Open Youth Auditions will be held at 6:30, October 5th and 6th for youth ages 7 to 18 at St John's Episcopal Church on 19th and Capitol Way. We will be casting both the youth parts in Little Women, which will be staged in December, and our Youth Only production, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, which opens in February. Come prepared to read exerpts from the scripts and wear comfortable clothes for movement. Call backs for each show will be held separately by invitation. See below for answers to some "frequently asked questions".
Frequently Asked Questions (updated August, 2010)
What is An OFT Youth Production?
The main focus of Olympia Family Theater has always been on putting plays on for children and their families, not necessarily of putting children on the stage. Over the years, as we've grown, we've encountered a very strong youth presence in our audience and in our organization. We have offered school break camps and met hundreds of talented young people looking for performance opportunities. Our unofficial "OFTeens" group has staffed many a crew position for our productions as well as appeared onstage. Last year, we began offering one “YOUTH ONLY” production within our regular season of plays. Last year, we did a holiday show- maybe you saw it? This year we will perform Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland which will use youth both onstage and back stage.
When and where do I audition?
Open Auditions will be held at 6:30, October 5th and 6th for youth ages 7 to 18. We will be casting both the youth parts in Little Women, which will be staged in December, and our Youth Only production, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, which opens in February. Check the website for details. In the meantime, please call 360-570-1OFT (1638) or email jenryle@olyft.org with any questions you have about the process, rehearsal schedules, expectations, etc.
How much does it cost?
Tuition is offered on a sliding scale: $75 - $250, and we ask that you pay what you can afford. Keep in mind that your child is participating in 6 weeks of rehearsals, a fun-filled performance experience and countless hours of education led by theater professionals. Other theater companies in town would charge $500 or more for such an experience. Our goal is to keep our programming affordable for participants and audience members alike.
How is it different from a "normal" production?
The same productions values and effort will be put into Youth Productions as with the rest of our regular season. 2 complimentary tickets will be provided to the cast for this production for opening weekend only. Adult family members and friends who are interested can volunteer to usher (Washington Center usher training must be completed) or sign up to help backstage and be able to see the show for free.
How old can my child be?
As a Youth Production, the primary age focus will be actors between 12 and 18, although children 7 years old and up are welcome to audition.
Why do I have to pay?
This is an educational program. We must pay our professional theater educators and staff as well as cover all the production costs of our regular shows.
Do I have to pay to audition?
No. Anyone can audition.
If I pay do I automatically get a part?
No, casting is at the discretion of the director. If you are cast, you will be expected to fill out a consent form, behavior agreement and pay your tuition by the first day of rehearsals January 3, 2011.
If I pay more, can I get a bigger part?
Casting is done strictly on the merit system. Remember, you might be a great actor, but you may not be right for a specific part. If you don’t get a part, come and see the show to support the program and to promote goodwill with your fellow actors and the company. Take classes at school, in the community, or through OFT to practice improve your skills. And please try again in the future.
My child is very talented, but we can't make the audition date, what can we do?
Casting the show is up to the director, but it is possible a separate audition date may be set up. Call OFT and leave a message for Jen Ryle, 570-1OFT (1638).
I have a conflict with some of the dates in the play; can I just do one weekend?
You must be able to meet all your rehearsal and performance requirements. Your audition form asks for you to list any conflicts with rehearsals. Conflicts with performance dates are not okay though. Hundreds of hours of preparation by the theater staff, production team, and your fellow performers and crew are focused on producing a top-notch performance.
I don't like acting; I like gadgets and stuff. Can I help with the lights or the sound?
You bet. We're always interested in tech crew candidates and will provide training as needed. You must be reliable and experience back stage and on stage is a benefit. Participation of tech crew is handled by the stage manager for this show, Ted Ryle.
I'm worried I'll audition and not get cast in the show, what do I do?
It's always hard to be disappointed about not getting cast. It's something professional actors have to get used to. Still, remember that you are very brave to take that chance to put yourself out there, which is something most people don't do. Keep trying!
