YOU WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR A ROLE WITHOUT THE AUDITION FORM, TECHNICAL THEATRE PERMISSION FORM, AND PARENT SIGNATURES.

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1 SHS FALL MUSICAL 2018 AUDITION PACKET Read this packet before auditioning. Bring the audition form and technical theatre permission form to your audition. YOU WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR A ROLE WITHOUT THE AUDITION FORM, TECHNICAL THEATRE PERMISSION FORM, AND PARENT SIGNATURES. MEET THE DIRECTOR Hi! My name is Abra Chusid, and I couldn t be more excited to venture into the world of Shrek with all of you. I attended Stevenson, where I was active in the theatre and choir communities, and was involved in the cast and/or crew of all 4 musicals, and just about every other play. In fact, Mrs. Nuteson, Mrs. Snelten, and Ms. Burrows were all my teachers and directors! I continued exploring theatre at Northwestern University, where I had the opportunity to study musical theatre with legendary directors Dominic Missimi, David Bell, Tina Landau, and others. After college, I spent a year in Singapore on a Fulbright Fellowship, researching theatre education. I also spent a summer as an apprentice at a shadow puppet theatre in Cambodia (which influenced the use of shadow theatre in this production). I earned my MFA in Theatre Education from the University of Texas in Austin, teaching and directing all ages from preschool to college. I have spent the past 6 years as Theatre Teacher and Director at Lakes Community High School, where I directed 4 productions a year, including such musicals as Thoroughly Modern Millie, Beauty and the Beast, and Mary Poppins. My priority as a director is creating a community amongst all students involved, and for everyone to grow as citizens and artists. I can t wait to dive into this production with all of you, and introduce you to some of my favorite theatre traditions along the way! Please be in touch with any questions, or just to say hi and introduce yourself, at achusid@d125.org. THE STORY Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring songs from Jeanine Tesori ( Thoroughly Modern Millie; Caroline, or Change) and a sidesplitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears. "Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek..." And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand... and his name is Shrek.

2 CASTING OPPORTUNITIES We are looking to cast students. Everyone will act, sing, and dance in the production, and you will be featured according to your unique strengths and talents. Many roles are gender fluid, and we will consider students of all gender identities for most leading and featured roles, most notably all the fairy tale characters. This year, we are introducing understudies to the production. Many principal and featured roles will have understudies, who join them at rehearsal to learn the role. This is a unique opportunity to receive additional singing, acting, dancing, and performing training, as understudies will step into the role whenever their counterpart is absent (with no expectations to memorize). Many times in my career, understudies have stepped into dress rehearsals and performances, so this is truly an exceptional opportunity! Please indicate on the last page if you are willing to accept an understudy role. This production also presents exciting physical opportunities for the actors. The characters of Dragon and Donkey will fly, and Farquaad will act the entire show on his knees to appear shorter. Please indicate on the last page if you are willing to accept one of these roles given these requirements. While it is not possible to cast everyone who auditions, it IS POSSIBLE, AND ENCOURAGED, for every one of you to be involved in the production. Everyone (whether or not you are cast) is encouraged to serve on crew for the production, where you will learn new skills, be part of the tech community, and see the production unfold. Unsure of that that entails? Talk to Ms. Chusid or Ms. Evans! AUDITIONS To be considered for a role in Shrek, you must sign up for and attend BOTH a vocal/acting audition, and a dance audition. Sign ups will begin on Monday, August 6, on the new callboard outside the Black Box, In addition to attending your specific audition time, everyone will attend the required audition meeting on Monday, Aug 20, at 3:40 in the PAC. AUDITION WORKSHOP: Thursday, Aug 16, from 3:40-5:30, in the PAC NO PREPARATION IS NECESSARY- JUST SHOW UP!! You will be taught the audition songs in a group, singing through the songs several times together. You will also learn how to slate and present yourself at the audition. This workshop is optional but strongly suggested. VOCAL/ACTING AUDITIONS: Monday, Aug 20, in the PAC This year, everyone will audition with BOTH a song and a monologue. This play is comprised of a diverse and fun set of characters, so this is your opportunity to show us dynamic character choices. When you come to the audition, you will first slate, then sing with the accompanist, and then perform your monologue. One optional chair will be provided; no other props are necessary. 1) SONG. Choose one song cutting from those provided: Big Bright Beautiful World, Story of my Life, or Freak Flag. Choose the cutting you feel best showcases your singing and acting abilities, and that you enjoy the most. Memorization is not required, but strongly suggested, as it demonstrates your commitment and preparation.

3 2) MONOLOGUE. You may choose a monologue from the samples provided, or one of your own selection. If you choose your own, it should be from a comedic play, a musical comedy, or a movie in the style of Shrek (Dreamworks/ Pixar/Disney). Please do not perform a monologue from Shrek. Your monologue should be seconds, and memorization is strongly suggested. Create a distinct character that shows off your acting abilities. Have fun with this! ***Please be on time and ready when your audition group is called. Dress to impress. Hair should be out of faces; flip-flops, Ugg-style boots, shorts, and ripped jeans are not appropriate audition attire.*** DANCE AUDITIONS: Tuesday, Aug 21, in the PAC No preparation is needed. Please be warmed up and stretched before your audition time begins. At the audition, you will learn and perform a combination from the choreographer. Tap dancers should bring tap shoes and will be asked to stay for an additional dance call. There will also be an opportunity to show off any special physical talents or skills you have, including jumps, spins, and acrobatics. Dress for comfort and movement. CALLBACKS: Wednesday, Aug 22 and Thursday, Aug 23, in the PAC Music for callbacks is provided, identified by character. If you are interested in a featured or principal role, it is advised that you prepare music for all roles over the summer. Please note, preparing a song does not guarantee you will be asked to perform it. Remember, do not become too attached to one role or song; while you might see yourself one place, the directors might see different opportunities. A callback list will be posted by Wednesday morning on the SHS Theatre Website. Specific instructions for callbacks will be posted then. If you are called back, you may be asked to read from the script, sing, and/or dance, so please come prepared to do all three, and dress professionally. Wednesday s callbacks will end by 6; please keep your schedule available to stay as late as you are needed on Thursday. The Cast List will be posted on the SHS Theatre Website Friday evening, August 24. All students who audition should check the cast list, as you may be cast even if not called back. A NOTE ON CASTING There are always many factors affecting casting decisions, and the decisions are never easy. As it is the directing team s job to cast the show, we view the production as a whole not as individual parts that seem more or less important than others. As a result, everyone s contributions to the production are important and valued. We kindly ask that you trust in our decisions and realize the importance of working together as an ensemble, viewing each role as an important part of the entire project. Unfortunately, it is not possible to cast each student who auditions, but it is absolutely possible for each student to be involved in the production. Therefore, we hope that students who are not cast will consider contributing to the production s success as a member of the production team. The directing team is more than happy to talk to students about their auditions and provide feedback for improvement at future auditions. However, we believe that students should first self-assess and consider the many factors contributing to a production. Therefore, we will not field any questions about auditions until Wednesday, August 29. Students wishing feedback should make an appointment with the director(s) outside of class time.

4 PRODUCTION INFORMATION FIRST REHEARSALS: Mon, Aug 27 & Tues, Aug 28, 3:45-6pm. All cast, rehearsal team, and assistant designers will be called to these rehearsals in the PAC. A rehearsal calendar will be provided at Monday s rehearsal. REQUIRED COMPANY MEETING for all students AND parents: Wednesday, August 29, at 6:00pm All students involved in the production as cast, crew, and pit, are expected to attend this meeting with at least one parent/guardian. Production information, including dates and student expectations will be shared at this time. REHEARSALS Each role in this production will require a substantial time commitment. Rehearsals will occur after school, as well as some Saturday and Sunday afternoons; student should expect to attend at least 75% of these rehearsals. Keep in mind that all cast members will attend vocal, dance, and blocking rehearsals. It is essential that you provide a list of ALL known conflicts on the audition form from August 27-November 20. As you are considering your conflicts, be sure to consider jobs and other co-curricular involvement including athletics, choirs, band, work schedules, family travel, college visits, doctor appointments, etc. Students will be given a rehearsal calendar, but it is important to remember that this calendar will change, and students should remain flexible. While occasional conflicts may be accommodated, extensive conflicts may prohibit your involvement. With the exception of emergencies, conflicts that arise once we are in rehearsals may or may not be excused. Missing a rehearsal without prior permission from a director may subject you to expulsion from the play. If you miss a rehearsal for any reason, you will be responsible for learning what you missed on your own time. We ask that parents understand the importance of attending rehearsals in order to ensure the best possible experience for all of the cast, crew and staff. If there is an emergency, be sure to notify Ms. Chusid in as much time as possible. Please do not make plans during the scheduled rehearsals. It is expected that ALL cast members attend the last four weeks of rehearsal. Conflicts will not be approved during this time: October 22-November 14. TECHNICAL COMMITMENT Shrek is a HUGE production, with extensive technical undertakings, and it s going to be amazing! But, it will take all of us to make the Swamp and Duloc come to life in all its splendor! All cast members, [for all SHS productions] are required to help in building sets, hanging lights, working on costumes, etc. Weekend crew days will be set up and you will be expected to participate in at least 8 hours of crew, one full crew day. Additionally, all students who participate in building sets, hanging lights, working on costumes, etc. (which includes ALL cast members) must first participate in crew safety training. Dates for the trainings will be provided at the first rehearsal. All cast members must also attend at least one day of strike after the performance is complete.

5 COSTUMES You may be asked to furnish portions of your costume, particularly shoes, undergarments, and makeup. The budget does not always allow the luxury of providing all costume needs for each character. Additionally, if and when costumes are provided for you, you must take care not to damage your costumes. Any rented or borrowed costume or costume piece for which SHS is charged excessive wear and/or replacement fees, the student will be expected to cover that cost. So, please take care of all the garments you are issued for production. ELIGIBILITY: NO PASS, NO PLAY Students participating in ANY/ALL co-curricular groups, clubs, productions, and/or teams MUST meet SHS eligibility and attendance policies. If at any time during the rehearsal process these requirements are not upheld, you will be pulled from the group, cast, team, etc. and replaced. Refer to your student handbook for the eligibility policy and requirements. You are also expected to be a kind, courteous, and respectful citizen. A NOTE ON PROFESSIONALISM All cast members will be expected to be professional, courteous, and respectful throughout the rehearsal and performance process. This includes being on time and present at rehearsals, meeting all deadlines, and wearing appropriate attire and footwear to rehearsals. All cast, crew, and pit students will be equal members of the ensemble, and disrespect toward peers will not be tolerated. The opportunity to appear onstage means you are the public face of Stevenson and the Fine Arts Division, and you are expected to take this responsibility with pride. PARENT VOLUNTEERS The success of SHS productions depends on assistance from our invaluable parent volunteers. Due to the scale of this production, we request that each parent volunteer in at least one capacity. Volunteer needs include helping to build, paint, and install and strike the set, coordinating meals during tech week, staying backstage with students, selling concessions during the shows, and so forth. New ideas always welcome! Opportunities to sign up for volunteer shifts will be presented at the all company meeting. PERFORMANCES Performance Dates and Times: Thursday, November 15 during the school day - Middle School Performance Friday, November 16 at 7:00pm Saturday, November 17 at 7:00pm Sunday, November 18 at 2:00pm

6 SHREK AUDITION FORM Bring this completed form to your audition. You will not be considered for a role without a parent signature on this form AND the technical theatre permission form. Name: Year in School: Phone Number: Parent/Guardian Name(s): ID Number: Preferred Gender and Pronoun: Address: Parent/Guardian What is your vocal range or part (if known)? Any other special skills or talents, including tap, instruments or tumbling? Are you willing to be cast in a role requiring flying or performing your knees? Yes No If cast in the ensemble, are you interested in also being an understudy (remember, this is an awesome opportunity to learn and grow!!)? Yes No If not cast, are you interested in working on the production team (remember, this too is an awesome opportunity to learn and grow!!)? Yes No If YES, in what capacity? Assistant Director Stage Management Team Lighting Sound Set (Construction and Painting) Props Costume/Hair/Makeup Run Crew Please attach a resume of previous theatre, music, dance, and performance experience, if applicable, or write it on the back of this form. On the back, please list ALL conflicts from August 27-November 20. Parent/Guardian Statements: I have read and understand the audition and casting procedures. I have verified this audition form and the rehearsal conflicts on the back, and it is complete and correct. I understand and support the commitment my child is making toward this production. I understand my commitment to volunteer in support of my child and the production. I will attend the required company meeting on Wednesday, August 29 at 6:00pm Parent/Guardian Name: Date: Parent/Guardian Signature: Questions? Find Ms. Chusid in the Black Box (2204), or her at achusid@d125.org

7 StageCrafters* and Technical Theatre Information and Safety Expectations *Technical Theatre Club Parents: Please read through this with your student before you BOTH sign. StageCrafters is the Technical Theatre Club for Adlai E Stevenson High School and provides technical support for all Fine Arts Division performances as well as other productions sponsored by the PPA, The Stevenson Community Foundation, outside rentals and other productions that require student technical assistances throughout the school year. The activities that StageCrafters members participate in CAN BE potentially dangerous if the following rules and regulations are not followed. Additionally, all students involved in productions must follow the same guidelines for production hours, technical rehearsals, and strike calls. As is the case with an other Co-Curricular Student Activity at Stevenson High School, students must abide by the Extracurricular/Co-curricular Code of Conduct that can be found in detail at: Beyond the Code of Conduct, Stage Crafters has some additional requirements: 1. All participants must watch a Theatre Safety video and their viewing will be documented before they can participate in advanced technical activities. 2. All participants will be trained in the use of any hand and power tools/ painting supplies and tools; lighting equipment and tools; and any other equipment/ supplies required for productions before they are allowed to operate such equipment/supplies. 3. Students are not permitted to bring their own tools. All tools will be provided by A.E. Stevenson High School. 4. Students must wear appropriate protective clothing for crew calls. This includes closed toed shoes, preferably gym shoes, leather shoes or boots (no flip-flops, sandals or other shoes that expose any part of the foot); jeans or appropriate shorts (no skirts or short-shorts ); a t-shirt or button down shirt that covers their upper body, and junk clothes for painting calls that won t get them in trouble for accidents and/or the inevitable paint fight that occurs with students. 5. Students will let the supervising Technical Director know if there is anything they are uncomfortable doing so that an alternate assignment can be found. 6. If you agree to take a position on Running Crew for a show, you must be at all Technical Rehearsals and Performances. If you can t, don t agree to take the position. If you let us know after committing that you can t be there for the specified times, you may be replaced depending on their circumstances. FUN! Keeping the above info in mind, StageCrafters is meant to be FUN! All of the activities that StageCrafters provides teach the members how to exercise their creativity in a constructive way; learn how to use tools safely, build scenery, paint and make performances shine with lighting equipment while also working as a collaborative group. During these after school calls/ weekend builds/ live performances, we should all learn how to have fun as a team!

8 Sponsors and contact info: Aimee Evans Technical Director & Stage Crafter Sponsor Ryan Carlson - Stage Crafter Sponsor rcarlson@d125.org Chris Gadzic - Stage Crafter Sponsor cgadzic@d125.org Please keep the club expectations and sponsor contact info for you own reference.

9 StageCrafters* & Technical Theatre Permission Form PARENT/GUARDIAN: Having read and understood Club Expectations, I give my student permission to participate in the StageCrafters Technical Theatre Club, and other Technical Theatre Activities as required by productions (including build hours, technical rehearsals, and strike): Signature/ Date STUDENT: Having read and understood the Club Expectations, I agree to abide by these regulations and wish to participate in the StageCrafters Technical Theatre Club, and other Technical Theatre Activities as required by productions (including build hours, technical rehearsals, and strike): Signature/ Date STUDENT ID NUMBER