(BASKING RIDGE, NJ) -- Light Opera of New Jersey (LONJ) will hold auditions in June for the newly created LONJ Youth Ensemble, part of the company's new Youth in Arts programming initiative.
Designed for young singers ages 13 to 20, the LONJ Youth Ensemble offers training and performance opportunities for students interested in operetta and traditional musical theatre. Participants will gain firsthand experience working alongside LONJ performers, musicians, and production staff as part of selected mainstage productions.
In addition to mainstage opportunities, ensemble members will participate each summer in a two-day workshop led by distinguished artists and educators in music and theatre. During the fall season, members will perform in the annual LONJ Youth Ensemble Concert, with additional performances presented at nursing homes and community centers throughout the region.
Entry into the program is by audition only. A $100 participation fee per student helps defray costs including coaching and accompanist fees, travel and food expenses, music rentals, royalties, and ticket costs.
In-person auditions will take place on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 7:00pm in St. Mark's Episcoal Church (140 South Finley Avenue) in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
An accompanist will be provided. Applicants should prepare two contrasting selections from the operetta or traditional musical theatre repertoire and bring sheet music for both selections. Songs from rock or pop musicals are not requested.
Video Auditions
Self-tape submissions will be accepted for applicants unable to attend the in-person audition. Videos must be submitted by midnight on Friday, June 12, 2026. Applicants should state their name and age at the beginning of the recording and perform two contrasting selections from the operetta or traditional musical theatre repertoire. Songs from rock or pop musicals should be avoided. Video submissions should be emailed to: [email protected]
All applicants must complete the online audition form prior to the audition or submission deadline.
Light Opera of New Jersey is a premier regional theater company dedicated to bringing high-quality operetta, opera, and musical theater to the community while fostering the development of emerging artists and engaging young audiences through innovative outreach.
