TUTS EQUITY AUDITIONS FAQ

Do I have to be in the union to audition?

Equity members and non-Equity members are welcome to audition in person. However, only equity members can sign up for an audition time in advance. Non-equity can show up day of auditions to sign themselves in and wait for a time where there are is equity member slated or in the waiting area.

Do you hold auditions in NYC?

No, we only hold callbacks in NYC that are by appointment and for select shows only.

If I don’t live in Houston, can I come to Houston auditions?

Yes, Houston calls are open to all Equity members. Non-Equity performers need to be Houston locals or have Houston housing.

Do you accept video auditions?

Yes. Please prepare the same vocal materials as the in-person materials and a dance reel. Virtual Materials will be due April 10^th.

You can submit your VIRTUAL AUDITION MATERIALS HERE.

What if I can’t make auditions?

If you can’t attend scheduled auditions, we hope to see you next time! We have regular calls throughout the year. Please keep checking back to this site for calendar updates.

How will I be notified about callbacks/casting?

Callbacks typically happen later (it may take as long as a month or two). If we need to see you for a callback, we will notify you. If you do not hear from us, then you are not in contention for the show. We do not notify you if are not in contention.

How much will I make?

TUTS hires both Equity and non-Equity performers. Equity performers are paid the WCLO current rates and non-Equity performer salaries will be negotiated.

Do I have to sing?

Yes. Since we are casting for musicals, everyone cast must be able to sing well.

Should I come to both the singer’s audition and the dancer’s audition?

You may attend both if you like but use your best judgement as to what shows off your talents. If you are a strong dancer, you should attend the dance call. If you are kept until the end, you will be asked to sing. If you are a stronger singer, you should come to the singer’s call.

Can I audition for a specific role?

You can audition with a specific role in mind, but we use our creative experience to choose the actor who best fits the role. Who knows? Maybe the role you never expected is perfect for you!

TUTS PRE-PROFESSIONAL AUDITIONS FAQ

How old do I have to be?

All performers must be 18 years old by the first day of rehearsal. If you are under the age of 18 and enrolled in Humphreys School of Musical Theatre and/or The River School for Performing and Visual Arts, please email education@tuts.com for audition information.

When will the student audition portal be up?

The audition portal will be distributed and posted on TUTS education pre-professional page for enrolled HSMT and River students in late July.

Will you host in person auditions?

Not at this time. Due to having non-local mainstage directing team members on each show, it is easiest to facilitate casting our teen ensembles through video links. We will start with self-tape videos first, and if an in-person callback is necessary, we will communicate directly to those needing to be seen.

What all can I audition for?  

Youe audition can serve as the audition for all upcoming pre-professional programs for Humphreys School of Musical Theatre and/or The River School for Performing and Visual Arts including:

• Mainstage Shows
• Pre-Professional Company
• TUTS Pop Up Performances
• HSMT Academy Auditions (new prospective students)- ineligible for mainstage
• HSMT Academy Re-assessment (returning HSMT students wanting to contend for a higher-class level)

What do rehearsals look like for Mainstage Teen Ensembles?

The typical Teen Ensemble rehearsal days/times are Tues-Friday from 3:30-4:45pm, and Sat/Sunday 1pm-9pm. During Thanksgiving week, rehearsals will be full day since school is on break (with only Thanksgiving Day off). We also tend to participate in the Thanksgiving Day parade. Once we transition into tech week, teen ensemble is called to tech starting at 3:30pm until 10pm at night (Tues-Thurs) with a full day call on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (we provide excuse letters for school for that Fridays’ school absence). Teen Ensemble will be expected to be present for all evening and matinee shows.

What if I have a conflict?

Conflicts will affect Teen Ensemble casting. With limited rehearsal time, the teen ensemble will be expected to attend all rehearsals and shows. If you do have conflicts to submit, we will do our best to try and make it work, however, TUTS casting has full discretion of not approving submitted conflicts. 

Will I be notified about callbacks/casting for Mainstage Teen Ensembles?

Callbacks typically happen later (it may take as long as a month or two). If we need to see you for a callback, we will notify you. If you do not hear from us, then you are not in contention for the show. We do not notify you if are not in contention, as this is the same practice in professional theater. We will, however, send an email announcement once a show has been fully cast.

What all affects casting decisions for Mainstage Teen Ensemble?

Casting is like a puzzle. It is not always about talent, it is about the full picture and the balance of the casting/directorial needs. However, poor attendance (<80% cumulative rate) in class will affect teen ensemble casting.

What all affects casting decisions for the Pre-Professional Company?

The Pre-Professional company is a fast paced, disciplined, and professional environment. Our already challenged HSMT academy students and Tommy Tune Awards students are invited to audition as a representation of the top talent in Houston. This expectation is our foundation in the rehearsal room and translates through performances across the Greater Houston Area.  With a learning atmosphere of high intensity training, conditioning, and work ethic, company members must have not only the talent/potential, but also must have the emotional, mental, and physical strength to be successful. Company members are only allowed 6 conflicts/missed rehearsals a year. Mainstage productions are the only conflict exceptions.