"The overall experience changed my view on performing."

–Alaina, Usdan Student

Join the Troupe former company members describe as “summer-stock theater for teens."

Usdan Troupe is one of our most selective classes. This three-period Major is only open to students currently in grades 8–12, and requires an 8-week enrollment. Troupe provides students additional time to develop their musical and theatrical skills, discover new characters, and deeply explore the mannerisms and behaviors of a role. Usdan’s musical theater productions are led by two lead faculty members, one director and one musical director, who are professional theater educators specializing in directing and music directing. At the end of the summer, the Usdan Troupe presents a fully staged musical production in the 900-seat McKinley Amphitheater.

Recent shows include Candide, Grand Hotel, Les Misérables, Carousel, Singin’ in the Rain, Titanic, and Little Women. Rehearsals take place in open-air studios set amidst Usdan’s beautiful, wooded campus. Admission to Troupe is subject to audition; students will be asked to submit an audition recording including a song of their choice shortly after enrolling.

"My favorite parts were the bond that we shared and the dedication that the directors put into their work for us."

–Erik, Usdan Student

AUDITION FOR THE USDAN TROUPE

Enrolled students and prospective Troupe members are invited to audition for a spot in this selective theater program on Sunday, February 9. Students may either audition live, in-person at the Usdan campus or by submitting a video recording of their audition no later than Sunday, February 9. No preference is given to a live audition over a virtual audition, both audition methods will be assessed equally. Students who enroll after the February 9th deadline will receive virtual audition instructions shortly after enrolling.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR AUDITION

For both the in-person and recorded audition, please prepare the following:

• A song from Broadway repertoire. Try to select a song that best shows the range of your talent.
• A memorized monologue. Try to select one that best shows the range of your talent. The monologue should come from a published play. It should not exceed one minute in length and should not come from a monologue book or be self-written.

We are on your side, and we want you to have the best possible audition! Here are some tips on how to have your best audition:

• Have fun and do your best to let the nerves go.
• Do the preparation. You will never feel comfortable or confident in an audition if you are not properly prepared
• It is impossible to fake a good audition. Work to make your audition an authentic one.

If you are performing live:

• Consider Your Accompanist: Have your sheet music in a binder or tape the pages edge-to-edge together, in order.
• If you can’t memorize your monologue, we will allow you to read from the page, but it will almost certainly weigh heavily against their audition’s adjudication.
• If you do not get a chance to warm up, there will be a quick warm-up during your audition, when you match pitch.
• Bring your water. Stay hydrated!