Carey Dinner Theatre will celebrate its 45th season in July with a return to in-person performances.
“Last year, we had to cancel our summer season because of the pandemic. It was disappointing for our students and the community, but over time, we’ve learned a lot more about safety protocols,” said Obra Quave, managing director of Carey Dinner Theatre.
Carey Dinner Theatre usually produces two musicals each summer. Due to COVID-19 issues, however, only one will be staged in 2021.
Actor auditions and crew interviews will be Saturday, April 17, beginning at 10 a.m. at Tatum Theatre on William Carey University’s Hattiesburg campus.
Each member of the company, both performers and staff, is paid. The financial package includes salary, housing, and tips – company members serve during dinner.
Those auditioning as performers will present a one-minute monologue (no dialect) from a modern prose play and a one-minute vocal selection from a Broadway musical. An accompanist will be available, but will not transpose. Recorded accompaniment may be used. Performers should bring comfortable clothes to participate in a dance audition. They may also apply for backstage positions.
Audition requirements for pianists include a prepared, two-minute selection from a Broadway musical. Sight-reading will be required.
Interviews will be held for technicians, costume assistants and box office personnel. Each person will complete an application and an interview with Carey Dinner Theatre staff. Portfolios are encouraged. People interviewing for crew positions may also audition as performers.
Each applicant should bring a head shot to the audition/interview. The time commitment for company members is June 18 through July 26. Contracts are offered only to those who will have graduated from high school by June 18. Video auditions and interviews will be considered only before April 17.
Carey Dinner Theatre, founded in 1975, has a long tradition of excellence. In its history, more than 60 colleges and universities, in addition to William Carey University, have been represented by students in the company.
For more information, call (601) 318-6218 or email
cdt@wmcarey.edu.