Auditions & Casting

Do I have to audition even if I’m already signed up for the class?

Yes. The audition is part of class placement. It helps our team match students with material that fits their voice, movement, and confidence level. Our hope is to equip students who aspire o audition for main stage performances to be a standout.

What will the audition look like—do I need to prepare a song, monologue, or dance?

We’ll guide students through a short, age-appropriate process: a brief vocal line or song cut we teach in the room, a few lines of script, and a simple movement combo. No outside prep required. If there is dancing required for the part, the students may be asked to perform some dance moves as well.

Will everyone get a role, or are there cuts?

Everyone enrolled performs. Roles are tailored to the student so each performer has meaningful stage time and a clear job in the story. We do not pre-cast any roles so every student has an opportunity to audition for any role.

When will the cast list be posted, and how will I find out my role?

Within a few days of auditions. Families receive an email and cast list through our registration portal. We will promote the full cast on social media during show promotions.

Can parents watch auditions or callbacks?

To reduce nerves and keep the room focused, auditions are closed. Parents are welcome in the lobby.

If I’m nervous or don’t get the part I want, will there still be something meaningful for me to do?

Absolutely. We design our productions so every student contributes in a visible way.

Rehearsals & Class Time

What does a typical rehearsal or class day look like?

Check-in and warm-up (voice/movement), learning or reviewing scenes/songs, short break, then staging and run-through. We end with notes and a quick next-steps plan.

Do we need to memorize lines before the first rehearsal?

No. We provide materials and deadlines. Memorization usually begins after the first week once staging starts.

How strict are attendance requirements—what if I have to miss a day?

Please list conflicts at auditions at the latest. We can work around a limited number of pre-approved absences. Tech week and performances require full attendance.

Are rehearsals ever held outside normal class hours?

Occasionally we schedule an extra brush-up or spacing rehearsal with advance notice. These are used sparingly and communicated early.

Will there be “work days” for sets or costumes, and are families expected to help?

Yes. We host work days; family help is appreciated and makes a big difference. No special skills required. The volunteers may assist in building sets, collecting props, organizing/adjusting costumes etc. Younger students may be focus on other production responsibilities.  The Technical Director is responsible for assigning all volunteer responsibilities.

Tech Week & Performances

What is “tech week,” and how is it different from regular rehearsals?

Tech adds lights, sound, costumes, mics, and scene changes. It’s when students learn professional pacing and backstage flow. We end every rehearsal on time as we know students and families have other many commitments.

Are tech week rehearsals mandatory?

Yes. Tech builds safety and timing for the whole ensemble.

What should students bring or wear during tech week?

Closed-toe shoes, water bottle, script/pencil, hair pulled back. We may ask for black base layers and specific under-shoe footwear.

How many performances will there be, and when are they scheduled?

Each program lists specific dates and times in its details. Plan for multiple shows across a weekend.

How early do performers need to arrive before a show?

Typically 60–90 minutes prior for warm-up, costume, and mic checks. Your stage manager will confirm call times.

Can I invite family and friends backstage after the show?

For safety, backstage is restricted. Students greet guests in the lobby after they are signed out and cleared by stage management.

Costumes & Props

Will costumes be provided, or do we need to bring items from home?

WCT provides most show pieces. Families may be asked for easy “base items” (e.g., black pants, neutral shoes). We’ll share a simple checklist early in the rehearsal process.

If we provide part of a costume, will it be returned?

Yes. Personal items are labeled and go home with the student. WCT pieces are checked back in after the final performance.

Are students responsible for makeup and hair, or will someone help?

You’ll receive a show-specific hair/makeup guide. Younger students are assisted by staff/volunteers; older students learn to do their own with supervision.

Tickets & Comps

Do performers get complimentary tickets? If so, how many?

Comp policies vary by production. Typical practice is 2 comps per performer; final details arrive with your cast packet.

How can families buy extra tickets, and do they usually reach capacity?

Purchase at wacocivictheatre.com. Popular family shows often reach capacity quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Can performers stay to watch other performances if they’re not onstage?

If they are not called and seats are available, they may attend out of costume with a guardian, subject to house management approval.

Experience & Expectations

I’ve never done theatre before—will I fit in or know what to do?

Yes. We teach everything step by step—how to warm up, take direction, hit marks, and work as a team. First-timers thrive here.

What’s the most important thing to remember about being part of a WCT show?

Be prepared, be kind, be brave.