Godspell Jr. Audition Packet
Performed at the NorShor Theatre
August 9 - 11, 2024
Conceived and Originally Directed by John-Michael Tebelak
Music and New Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz
Directed by Paulina Jurzec
Choreographed by Kaitlyn Callahan
Music Directed by Lussi Pearl Salmela
Duluth Playhouse is committed to inclusive casting. Actors (entering grades 3-8) of all ethnicities, gender identities, and abilities are highly encouraged to audition.
GENERAL AUDITION INFORMATION
Auditions will be held in person on the first day of the Junior Intensive at the NorShor Theatre Rehearsal Studios located at 211 E. Superior St., Duluth, MN, 55802.
AUDITION DETAILS
WHAT TO BRING
CALLBACK DETAILS
Callbacks will be held the same day (July 15). Actors asked to attend callbacks should be prepared to read from the script and sing songs from the show.
ABOUT GODSPELL JR.
We encourage you to read the script and listen to the soundtrack in preparation for your audition. You can find a digital version of the script HERE and the piano/conductor score HERE, and you can find the soundtrack on Spotify or HERE on YouTube.
DESCRIPTION
Godspell, the beloved classic from Stephen Schwartz, the Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer of Wicked, retells the greatest story ever told. Enjoy one of the most enduring shows of all time with an eclectic blend of songs ranging in style from pop to vaudeville. This timeless tale has touched the hearts of countless theatergoers all over the world. Join the celebration of kindness, tolerance, and friendship.
Jesus
Jesus is a natural-born teacher. This performer is a good singer and is comfortable taking on a leadership position without being bossy or judgmental. Jesus experiences a full array of emotions during the show, so this performer must convincingly perform this range.
Judas/John the Baptist
One performer plays both of these roles, which is quite a challenge. This actor must be charismatic in the opening, headstrong and comical in the middle of the show, and eventually turn on Jesus at the end. All of this while being a great singer, too. This performer must be both a strong singer and actor.
“Day By Day” Soloist
This song doesn't have a large vocal range, but it has great power and weight at the start and then livens up to a great celebratory number. This performer must have the vocal control to lead the song from beginning to end.
“Learn Your Lessons Well” Soloist 1 & 2
The key to patter songs is to have singers who are great enunciators and engaging storytellers. It is less about the melody and more about the lyrics.
“O, Bless The Lord, My Soul” Soloist
Pull out your big guns for this song. This performer must be a great musician with both vocal control and power.
“All Good Gifts” Soloist
This heartfelt ballad sounds best when sung by someone who not only has a beautiful voice, but also can express honest, simple emotions while they are singing.
“We Beseech Thee” Soloist
This high-energy number is the perfect song for the fun-loving class clown who enjoys performing. This number could also be spoken instead of sung.
“Light Of The World” Soloist
Here's another song that can be spoken in rhythm. This performer is fearless and not afraid to interact with the audience.
“Beautiful City” Soloist
This singer of this number brings everyone together and delivers the message of the show in this beautiful, sincere song.
Narrators
There are a whole multitude of Narrators throughout the show. Performers must have loud, clear voices and be comfortable being in front of an audience and telling a story.
Ensemble
These cast members are the heart of Godspell JR. They will enact all of the parables and eventually become a community led by Jesus. These performers must be willing to try anything and enjoy playing.
Rehearsal Dates and Times:
Mon-Fri, July 15 - August 9, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where:
NorShor Theatre Studios and Main Stage
211 E Superior Street, Duluth, MN
Thursday, August 8
Sponsor Night - Call 5:30 pm, Show 7:00 pm
Friday, August 9
Opening Night - Call 5:30 pm, Show 7:00 pm
Saturday, August 10
Matinee - Call 12:30 pm, Show 2:00 pm
(Meal provided)
Evening - Call 3:30 pm, Show 5:00pm
Sunday, August 11
Matinee - Call 12:30 pm, Show 2:00 pm
(Meal provided)
Evening - Call 3:30 pm, Show 5:00pm
If you have any questions about the audition process, please contact the Director of Education Denise Ruemping: education@duluthplayhouse.org.