Algonquin Arts Theatre to Hold Open Auditions for Summer Productions of "The Wizard of Oz" and "Rent"

(MANASQUAN, NJ) -- Algonquin Arts Theatre is thrilled to announce open auditions for its two highly anticipated summer musicals: the enchanting family favorite The Wizard of Oz and the iconic rock musical Rent. Opportunities are available for performers of all ages, with a mix of in-person and virtual audition options.

For detailed audition requirements, song/scene cuts, and more information on each show, click here.

The Wizard of Oz

Performances: July 12–27, 2025. Directed by: Anthony Greco; Musical Direction: Stephen Strouse; Choreography: Jessica O’Brien; AYE Teaching Artist: Jennifer Eagan. Follow the Yellow Brick Road this summer as Algonquin brings the magic of The Wizard of Oz to life with 10 performances of the beloved musical. Open auditions are available for high schoolers, adults, and students in elementary and middle school through the Algonquin Youth Ensemble (AYE) program.

Roles available include Dorothy, Glinda, Scarecrow, Tinman, Lion, Wicked Witch, Wizard, and more, as well as Munchkins and Flying Monkeys through the AYE program.

Rehearsals begin in May, with mandatory tech week (July 6–11) and full availability required for all performance dates.

Audition Schedule (In-Person at Algonquin Arts Theatre, 60 Abe Voorhees Drive, Manasquan, NJ):

* Tuesday, April 22 | 7:00pm – 10:00 pm – High School & Adults

* Thursday, April 24 | 7:00pm – 10:00pm – High School & Adults

* Saturday, May 3 | 11:00am – 2:00pm – Elementary/Middle School (AYE)

Virtual submissions (including a vocal audition and dance reel) will also be accepted. Email videos and inquiries to [email protected].

Audition Requirements: Prepare 32 measures of a song in the style of the show. Bring piano/vocal sheet music in the correct key. Students under 18 may choose Disney songs or familiar selections. Audition sides and song cuts for specific roles are available online.

You must register to audition: The Wizard of Oz Audition Form

Students under 18 cast in The Wizard of Oz will participate in the AYE program—a tuition-free, audition-only theatre education experience that integrates professional instruction with full production involvement.

Rent

Performances: August 9–17, 2025. Directed by: Ian Moore; Musical Direction: Mark Megill; Choreography by: Bridget Hughes. The summer heats up with a bold, passionate production of Rent—Jonathan Larson’s Tony Award® and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical that redefined a generation. This production will be cast by virtual submission only.

Roles available include Roger, Mimi, Mark, Maureen, Angel, Collins, Joanne, and Benny. Performers must be 18+ to audition.

Rehearsals begin in late June, with mandatory tech week (August 4–8) and full availability required for all performance dates.

Submission Deadline: Monday, April 28, 2025

Submit via: Rent Audition Form

Audition Requirements: Submit a 32-measure vocal video in the style of the show, along with a headshot and resume. Callbacks (by invitation only) will be held in-person at Algonquin in late April or early May.

For detailed audition requirements, song/scene cuts, and more information on each show, click here. Join them this summer at Algonquin Arts Theatre and take the stage in two of the most unforgettable musicals of all time!

Algonquin Arts Theatre (AAT) is a 501c (3) non-profit center for performing arts, providing cultural enrichment and arts education for residents and visitors of Central New Jersey and the Jersey Shore through high quality performances and programs in theatre, music, dance and film.

Located in Manasquan, N.J., AAT is an integral part of the Shore region, offering broad access to arts experiences across multiple disciplines. Deeply committed to education, AAT serves students of all ages not only through art and music instruction, but also through the unique communal conversation that exists between audience member and performer. A journeyman house, AAT features the work of young and emerging artists, designers and directors working alongside seasoned professionals.

AAT provides a platform for local and regional performers to showcase their work and offers audiences the opportunity to engage very directly and personally in the arts, fostering greater participation and providing an engaging means for exploring personal and societal issues through the world of the stage.

Algonquin Arts Theatre's programs are made possible in part by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts / Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Funding is also provided by the PNC Foundation, Manasquan Bank, Sunnyside Manor, the Dodge Foundation, the Provident Bank Foundation, the Horizon Foundation of New Jersey and the generosity of other businesses and patrons.

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