When I've taught summer theatre programs with this age group and size, I've always done a group-based audition, typically set up like this:
Phase 1 is slating. Students line up, shoulder to shoulder, and then one at a time, they step forward and say their name and age. The first round of this is done without any particular direction (aside from reminding them to project); then, they do names and ages again, but with particular emotions (as if you just won the lottery, your best friend moved away, etc.). I encourage them to make strong physical and vocal choices.
Phase 2 is usually a movement activity based on the specific characters in the show.
Phase 3 is similar to Phase 1, but targeted to particular characters from the show. I'll have a small group line up, then give them a line from the show (never more than a sentence in length) and a brief description of the character who's saying the line, the circumstances, etc. The students repeat the line as a group a couple of times so they have it memorized, then they each have a chance to deliver the line in-character. Each small group performs 2-3 lines, then we switch to the next group so that everyone stays engaged.
This type of audition is definitely more limited than a traditional audition with cold reads and scenes -- but I've found that, with a large group of beginning actors, it gives me enough information about basic skills, characterization, willingness to take direction and make choices, etc. to be able to cast the show effectively. It's also pretty efficient, and because the students are never alone onstage and don't have to do any reading, it's less intimidating for actors who have never auditioned before.
Best of luck with the program!
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Elizabeth Berg
Drama Teacher
Ashland Middle School
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Original Message:
Sent: 02-22-2018 10:24
From: Anne Elisa Brown
Subject: Casting Children's Theater Camp
Hello Everyone!
I am running a children's theater camp next week. We only have Monday-Saturday from 3:30-5:30 to put a small show together and I was wondering if anyone had experience casting children's theater camps. We always cast the first day after a read-through and explanations of the characters. With thirty five (8-11 year-old) campers, it gets pretty hectic! Do any of you have a process that you use to try and cast a camp performance quickly and fairly? I know that feelings always get hurt, but we try to be as fair and objective as possible with about one hour to cast before the parents come to get the kids.
Thanks!
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Anne Elisa Brown
Director of the MHS Drama Department
Madison Central School District
Madison SD
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