Want to try out for our shows? Here's what you'll need to know!

We hold open auditions for all Children's Theatre of Elgin (CTE) and Fox Valley Theatre Company (FVTC)  productions. All parts are performed by children or young adults from the corresponding troupe.

ELIGIBILITY

CTE is for children ages 7 years (completed 1st grade) through age 15 years (but not yet completed 9th grade).

FVTC is for ages 15 years (and completed 9th grade) through age 20 years (but not yet completed 21st birthday).

REGISTRATION

Online registration is available for all CTE and FVTC productions with the link opening up about a month before auditions. Click to see a sample audition packet to find out what kinds of information you will need in order to register.

Parent/Guardian or students age 18 or older complete the registration forms. Please make a special note of the Cast Member Code of Conduct (minors) or Cast Member Code of Conduct (age 18+).  Both student and parents/guardians need to read this and agree to it. Adult Code of Conduct should be read by parents/guardians and agreed to as well.

TIME COMMITMENT

If you are cast in a show, be available for rehearsals Monday-Thursday from approximately 6:00-9:30 p.m. for about 6-8 weeks prior to the first performance. School show performances occur during the day, so all or part of 1-2 school days will be missed for most shows.

A maximum of 3 excused absences is allowed. Attendance is required at all tech week/dress rehearsals during the week leading up to opening night as well as all performances.                                                                                       top

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT AT AUDITIONS

The entire audition takes place in one evening. Students are put in groups of 6-10 students for the audition process. There are usually three parts to auditions: Reading, Music, and Dance.

READING: Participants will be asked to read a portion of a script. They should not only demonstrate good reading skills but read with expression.

MUSIC: Participants must be prepared to sing a song of their choice. Please bring easily readable sheet music for the accompanist and an additional copy for yourself if needed. If student is unable to bring sheet music, he or she should be prepared to sing "My Country 'Tis of Thee." 

The music should be 1) clearly marked for the accompanist, 2) selected to show the strength of the vocalist, and 3) must not exceed 1 minute in length. The directors will be looking for enthusiasm, vocal quality, tone, pitch, volume and range.

DANCE: Participant groups will be taught a brief dance sequence by a choreographer and then evaluated on enthusiasm, learning skills and ability.                                                                                                                             top

There is no audition fee. However, depending on the show, all participation fees are due in full either at the audition or by the parent meeting (usually the day of the first rehearsal). BE SURE TO REFER TO THE SPECIFIC SHOW PAGE TO FIND OUT WHEN FEES FOR THAT SHOW ARE DUE.

Fees vary depending on performance venue and are generally as follows:

HEMMENS CULTURAL CENTER SHOWS: Approximately $100 per participant

ELGIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE ARTS CENTER SHOWS: Approximately $200 per participant (CTE fees + ECC tuition)

Limited scholarship assistance is available based strictly on financial need. ALL scholarship applications are due prior to the audition date. Specifics deadlines for each show are posted on our Upcoming Auditions link.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Most shows also require purchase of a t-shirt, specific shoes, leotard, or other supplies. Students will need to provide a basket for their own costume, make-up, and hair supplies. Here is a link to a directory of costume stores if needed.

All CTE and FVTC programs are open to all individuals of the appropriate ages regardless of race, creed, or economic status.

SO GO FOR IT! WE HAVE NEW CAST MEMBERS IN EVERY SHOW! SEE YOU THERE.