Institute of Outdoor Drama Auditions Held March 14 at UNC-CH

On Saturday, March 14, 2009, theatre directors and staff from approximately 10 outdoor historical dramas from across the country will attend auditions at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) to audition performers and technicians for summer jobs. The auditions, sponsored by the Institute of Outdoor Drama, are open to anyone 18 or older with previous theatre experience. Jobs require a nine to 12 week commitment, including two weeks of rehearsal.

Note: Deadline for the completion of the on-line registration is Monday, March 2, 2009. A $50 non-refundable registration fee is required.

What Are Outdoor Historical Dramas?
Outdoor historical dramas are original plays, often with music and dance, based on significant events, and performed in amphitheatres located where the events actually occurred. From California to North Carolina, more than 35 outdoor dramas are performed annually employing 3,000 actors, singers, dancers and technicians.

Outdoor theatre offers an unconventional environment for actors and technicians to expand their skills while gaining invaluable experience in a large-cast, long-run production. The Institute of Outdoor Drama sponsors the only combined auditions bringing outdoor historical dramas, performers and technicians to one place. Outdoor historical dramas offer some of the nation's most exciting summer theatre employment opportunities.

What Kind of Job Can I Get?
Outdoor historical drama is rich in opportunities for performers and technicians to hone their skills. The productions need the expertise of stunt or combat professionals, pyrotechnicians, and horseback riders. Staff skilled in design, installation and maintenance of equipment for sound, electronic vocal reinforcment, special effects and lighting are also in demand.
For a list of companies attending the 2009 auditions click here.

What Is the Audition Format?
Auditioning Actors/Singers will be given 90 seconds for a monologue and song (including name and number) and may offer another selection at callback interviews. "Actors only" or "Singers only" will be given 60 seconds (one minute) for a song or monologue (including name and number). Dancers are led through warm-ups, combinations and routines featuring a variety of choreography.
Special Note to Technicians: Technicians must pre-register and complete the registration process in full (including photo). Check-in will be at the Center for Dramatic Art on the UNC campus between 6:30 am and 8:00 am Saturday, March 14, 2009. Position descriptions (salary, benefits, and minimum requirements) will be posted in the lobby along with a list of interview times and locations for each theatre company. Those applying for tech jobs should (1) check the company callback schedule, then (2) sign up for an interview on the sheet posted at the company's callback location.

Bonus: Q&A with Outdoor Drama Casting Directors
On Friday evening, March 13, from 7 pm - 8:30 pm, at the Hampton Inn, 1740 Fordham Blvd. (U.S. 15-501), Chapel Hill, NC 27514, casting and artistic directors from theatres participating in the National Outdoor Drama Auditions will talk about what makes a great audition. Registered applicants for the March 14 auditions may attend for a fee of $10.00 in advance or $15.00 at the door.

To post a comment, you must register and login.