Q: When is the UJHS Musical?
A: The performance dates are usually in early November.
Q: What grades can participate in the musical?
A: Any junior high school student
Q: When are auditions? Rehearsals?
A: Auditions are in late August or early September. There is an audition day and then a call back day if needed. Rehearsals start immediately following the cast list being posted and are held in the choir room starting at 3pm and going until 5-6pm. Not everyone goes to every rehearsal. In the beginning, there will be an all cast read/sing through. After that, certain scenes and groups will rehearse on a given afternoon. There will be a schedule provided soon after auditions. The two weeks before the performance will be all cast rehearsals as we put everything together with the stage crew and microphones and practice transitions.
Q: Can I do the musical and other sports, clubs, etc?
A: You need to be at rehearsal for your designated scene rehearsal times. You might need to miss some of your sports/club practice, but as long as there is communication between the director and coach all should be fine. If you are worried, please talk to Ms. Kensek and she will be happy to discuss with your coach.
Q: Do I have to be a good singer to audition? Do I have to have acting experience?
A: NO! If you just want to see if you like it, please audition! You don’t have to be a great singer or actor. This is a learning experience and everyone has fun whether you are a lead or in the ensemble.
Q: I’m not a front and center kind of person, will you need people to help back stage?
A: YES! We are always looking for stage crew to help backstage. You would start attending rehearsals the last two weeks before the show.
Q: Does everyone get a part?
A: We try our best to find a part for everyone. However, we don’t guarantee that everyone will make the cast. We haven’t had to cut anyone the past several years and we hope to continue that tradition.
Q: Parent Involvement
A: We ask that every parent assist in some way for the musicals. There will be help needed for costumes, makeup and hair, props and set. The more people that help, the less there will be to do for everyone.
Q: Do I have to buy a costume?
A: Lead roles are expected to help with the purchase and/or finding of their costumes. Ensemble parts may be expected to purchase and/or bring in some portion of their costume. For example, last year most participants provided their own black shoes and black leggings. Other parents were able to donate costume items and find costumes from other schools so ensemble parts didn’t have to make large purchases.
Q: What happens before auditions? What do I do?
A: Find a partner or two and sign up for a time slot. Practice any song that you think shows off your voice well. If you aren’t sure or are nervous to be on stage, sing Happy Birthday! Practice the dialog that you are given with your partner. If you can’t find a partner, PLEASE STILL SIGN UP! We will either pair you with someone or we will have the assistant director read the dialog with you.
Q: What happens at auditions?
A: When it is time for you and your partner to audition, you will come on stage and sing your individual song. Then, you will read your dialog with your partner or the assistant director. That’s it!
