The Milburn Stone Theatre and director William Bryant announce auditions
for the March 2020 production of Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World.
(please note - this is a non-equity, non-paid production)
Director: William Bryant
Music Director: Laura Hannagan
Production dates: March 19, 20, 21 2021
Friday and Saturday at 8pm, Sunday at 2pm
(please note: there is the possibility of a Saturday matinee on Saturday, March 20th, 2021)
Physical theatre location for in-person rehearsals and performances:
The Milburn Stone Theatre, Cecil College, One Seahawk Drive, North East MD 21901
Box office phone number: (410) 287-1037
How to audition for Songs:
Please visit the link, submit a video and fill out the form: (
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYJ_X-6kzyy1iB9ePhtBDEZpu7ejdMOXqueCWMbnXozbU97w/closedform) those auditioning are encouraged to submit all known conflicts on the form.
Song selection:
please prepare a song that both tells a story and that demonstrates acting as well as vocal ability. Due to the virtual nature of this process, those auditioning are encouraged to submit a song no longer than two minutes. A backing track for your audition is strongly preferred. If you need assistance finding appropriate audition materials please email
dcombs@cecil.edu
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Audition Video Requirements:
* Please start your video by stating your name, any role(s) you are auditioning for, and the song you will be singing.
* Please make sure you can be seen clearly. Your face and upper body should be visible.
* Please try to limit your video to no longer than two minutes.
* You may sing a capella, with a karaoke track or with accompaniment.
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Video submissions will be accepted until January 18th, 2021 at 11:59pm. Those being asked to attend a virtual callback will be notified by Thursday, January 21st. Casting notifications will be sent out by Monday, January 25th, 2021.
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Rehearsals for Songs will begin virtually in late January and transition to in-person in late winter. Please be advised that this production will adhere to all CDC requirements and proper social distancing recommendations, which may include the wearing of masks while at rehearsals and for performances, set forth by Milburn Stone Theatre and Cecil College while on campus.
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The Milburn Stone Theatre is committed to Cecil College’s principles of diversity, equity, and inclusivity, and encourages performers of all ethnicities, races, backgrounds, genders, and ages to audition.
“Songs for a New World” Casting Breakdown
Man 1
Vocal range: D3-C5
Ethnicity: Black/African descent
Age Range: 18-40
Man 1 is an optimistic and vibrant character throughout the show. His primary songs, “On the Deck of a Spanish Sailing Ship, 1492,” “The Steam Train,” “King of the World,” and “Flying Home” all portray characters in uncertain and oppressive circumstances, but who have the ability to lift up himself and those around him through faith and determination.
Man 2
Vocal range: F4-Ab4
Ethnicity: All ethnicities
Age Range: 25-50
Man 2 is a reserved and mature character, whose main songs include “She cries,” “The River Won’t Flow,” “The World was Dancing” and “I’d Give it All for You.” Throughout the show, Man 2 portrays characters whose life experiences have made them second guess their choices and whose fears have held them back from a more fulfilled life.
Woman 1
Vocal range: G3-F5
Ethnicity: All ethnicities
Age Range: 18-35
Woman 1 is a headstrong and hopeful character. Her primary songs are “I’m Not Afraid of Anything,” “Christmas Lullaby” and “I’d Give It All for You.” Through the course of the show, she portrays a young woman of innocence who uses her strength to persevere through her hardships, whether it is being left at the altar or an unplanned pregnancy.
Woman 2
Vocal range: F3-F5
Ethnicity: White/European descent
Age Range: 35-55
Woman 2 is a strong and often comedic character whose main songs are “Just One Step,” “Stars and the Moon,” “Surabaya Santa” and “The Flagmaker, 1775.” All of her characters portray women who feel like their lives did not end up they way they wanted. Many of her roles use melodrama and ridiculousness to show her dissatisfaction and longing for a different life.
About Songs for a New World:
Songs for a New World is, according to composer Jason Robert Brown, “about one moment. It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.”
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These are the stories and characters of today, the Songs for a New World. The first musical from Tony Award winner, Jason Robert Brown (Parade, Bridges of Madison County), this moving collection of powerful songs examines life, love and the choices that we make. With a rousing score that blends elements of pop, gospel and jazz, featuring tight harmonies and darling vocals, Songs transports its audience from the deck of a spanish sailing ship bound for a new land, to the ledge of a New York penthouse. Characters range from a young man in the Bronx who dreams of becoming a famous basketball player, to a forlorn and neglected Mrs. Claus lamenting as Christmas approaches. A small but powerful diverse cast and a supercharged, well crafted score appeal to old and new generations alike as each character -- in their own way -- takes hold of that one moment and enters a new world.
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