Northern Crossing Music and Drama Society is preparing for its 2025 spring musical, Footloose, and is looking for talented, dedicated individuals to be part of the production—both onstage and behind the scenes.
Auditions for the performance will be happening on two evenings, October 14 and 15, at Memorial Presbyterian Church (5108 50 St., Rocky Mountain House) from 7-9 p.m. both nights. Auditions are open to those who are at least 14 years old by April 23, 2025.
Based on the 1984 Kevin Bacon movie, organizers say the upcoming production will continue Northern Crossing’s tradition of electrifying performances featuring live music and choreographed dance. But first, there are a lot of roles looking to be filled, says Jesslyn Miller, director and costume designer.
“We do big musicals here, so generally our cast is 25,” says Miller. “But because we’re getting a lot of feedback and a lot of excitement in the community, I do feel like I can go up to 30 or 35 if we have a huge turnout.”
Auditions are not only for those who are on stage, says Miller, but also for behind-the-scenes roles such as tech, painters, costume designers, and live musicians. Miller notes Northern Crossing has had a live band in each and every production since it first started in 1986, something she says is becoming rarer and rarer.
For those auditioning for singing parts, Miller asks that you bring along some sort of accompaniment.
“If you have a piano player in your family, bring them along. But usually, most people bring along a karaoke version of that song,” says Miller. “You don’t have to sing a cappella.”
The organization prides itself on a smooth, transparent auditioning process, she adds.
“You’ll know within the week if you’re in or not,” says Miller. “We don’t leave you hanging. Also, I call back absolutely every person.”
As far as what to expect during your audition, organizers say there will be a quick form to fill out, then you will begin the singing and acting portion of the audition. Those auditioning can perform the song of their choosing, though organizers say you may not be able to complete the whole song due to time constraints. There will also be time to read some lines that the director has, as well as run through some choreography.
Miller hopes some veterans from the spring 2024 performance of Grease will show up to audition for the 2025 show.
“It was kind of a new generation [of performers] who showed up, and their excitement bled into their friends and family,” says Miller. “That’s why we’re getting so much buzz around this audition.”
Miller says casting will be wrapped up by late October, with rehearsals beginning in earnest early in the new year. As usual with other Northern Crossing shows, Miller says the production is scheduled for the last weekend of April and the first weekend of May 2025.
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