Q. What is 'thecompany' - thecompany is an independent, exciting new venture in youth music theatre. Its creative team has worked all over the world successfully performing in and/or directing shows. Our aim is to help youths experience the thrill of performing on stage in shows of professional calibre, whilst maintaining an enjoyable and exciting experience.
Q. What does thecompany do? - Seeks to develop young people’s potential by offering a wide range of training and performance opportunities and in theatre craft.
Q. Why “thecompany”? - “company” - a definition: “a number of persons united and incorporated for joint action”. Workshops prepare young people throughout the year and, in the summer, our focus is working together, united by the joint action of creating exciting, dynamic theatre to professional standards. Every member of our creative team works within the theatre and music industry, as do our pastoral staff. Each brings current knowledge of working practice to our projects with young people. thecompany is our collaboration; it is the core and centre of what we are and what we do.
Q. What is expected at the audition process? - We will be looking at dance, drama and singing disciplines. You spend at least an hour in each discipline, working as a group and individually. It's a great day where you will meet people that are passionate about Music theatre! There is a great atmosphere whilst you perform and learn.
Q. What standard do I have to be to audition? - Some people are stronger in certain disciplines than others. Concerned that you have 2 left feet, but you know you can belt out a top C!? Don't worry, we look at your strengths when casting roles and, as we rehearse, you strengthen all three skills. One very important thing that The Company is looking for is team players. It's all about being part of a close 'company', no egos please!
Q. Do I have to prepare anything for the audition. - Nope, just bring yourself, comfy clothes, packed lunch and a BIG bottle of water! Once everyone's registered it's straight into it, no waiting!
Q. How long does it take to know if I had a successful audition? - We will give you an answer within a week of your audition. You may be given a place, put on a reserve list until all the auditions are complete, or, if you’ve not been successful this time, you will receive positive feedback that may help you in future auditions, or help you to choose the right workshop for you.
Q. I'm a musician, can I audition to play in the show's band? - Yes! Please email Dan for further info.
Q. When are your rehearsals? A casting residential will take place 1st - 3rd May 2010
(this is a 4 day residential to cast principal, supporting and chorus roles before
starting rehearsals in August)
Summer residential dates are 17th - 28th August 2010
(In Manchester)
Parade at The Lowry Theatre show dates are 27th and 28th August 2010
Q. What happens at the residentials? - The residentials are great fun. The days are spent rehearsing with Caroline, Lee and Dan. During scenes where you’re not needed, the housestaff take over with a range of activities, both energetic and restful! All housestaff are very experienced in this work and they are all actors, musicians, dancers – or all three – so they understand the work you are doing and can support and help you with that too. Expect to work hard and have fun in a safe, professional and friendly environment. The Company holds enhanced disclosure checks for all housestaff and creative team, which are regularly updated for your safety and confidence.
Q. What will I gain from being part of thecompany? - Superb training in all skills - become a triple-threat performer! Excellent opportunities to learn theatre craft - students can work with top rank designers and technicians. Superb opportunities for musicians to play for a show at professional level.
Q. What's the most important thing? - Knowing about and respecting every job in the team and learning how to work as a team player.
Q. How old do I have to be to audition? - 13 to 23