Step Into the Spotlight—Auditions at The Music Studio of Warrensburg

At The Music Studio of Warrensburg, LLC in Warrensburg, MO, we believe everyone has talent to share. Since 2020, we no longer require a preliminary audition to be in our shows. Our productions are open to everyone — regardless of experience, background, or affiliation with any other studio. Simply sign up and you are in the cast. Ready to get started? Call us at (660) 441-3799.

Child playing piano keys close-up, hands on white and black keys
Singer and pianist rehearsing in a warm-lit music studio

How Our Audition Process Works

We still hold auditions, but not to exclude anyone. Our audition process exists solely to match you with the role that fits you best. Here is what you need to know:

  • Everyone who signs up is welcome—no experience required
  • Returning cast members are not required to re-audition unless their voice has changed or they prefer a fresh audition.
  • If you have been away for more than one season, we strongly encourage a new audition.
  • You do not have to be a student at TMSOW to participate in our productions.

All auditions take place at our studio located at 123 E. Gay Street, Suite S-2, Warrensburg, MO 64093.

What to Prepare for Your Audition

Coming prepared gives you the best chance of being matched with the role that suits you. Here is what to bring:

  • Musical Excerpt — Prepare 16 to 32 measures from the Broadway repertoire. Performing from memory is optional but highly encouraged. An accompanist will be provided. Please bring sheet music or a CD—no phone recordings or vocal tracks.
  • Monologue — Prepare a one-minute monologue performed from memory if possible. If you do not have one, we will provide a reading and give you time to prepare.
  • Photo — Bring a headshot or arrive early so we can take one. School or family photos are fine.
  • Resume — Bring one if you have it. If not, our audition form will capture the necessary information.
Musician playing acoustic guitar beside warm string lights at a dimly lit performance

Helpful Tips for a Strong Audition

Musician playing upright bass on a dimly lit stage, with blurred performers in the background

Choosing and Performing Your Monologue

  • Choose a character close to your own age and experience.
  • Find material from literature you love—you will understand the character better and it will show
  • Rehearse out loud many times—do not just memorize words; feel them
  • Practice with projection—the stage is much larger than your bedroom
  • Keep it within the time limit with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Day-of-Audition Do's and Don'ts

Do:

  • Bring something to do while you wait to stay focused and calm.
  • Be polite and professional from the moment you arrive—you are being observed the entire time.
  • Perform with confidence—you have something important to share

Don't:

  • Wear sandals, platforms, outrageous clothing, hats, dangling jewelry, or hair covering your face.
  • Apologize for yourself or your audition.
  • Direct your performance to the people sitting at the table—create your own fourth wall.

Our Casting Philosophy

Casting is a process that requires difficult decisions, and we take it seriously. The Music Studio of Warrensburg, LLC takes pride in finding a place for every person who auditions. A few things to keep in mind:

  • Whether or not you receive a specific role depends on production requirements, not your worth as a performer.
  • Rejection is a natural part of the audition process—even the most experienced actors face it.
  • We sometimes double-cast roles to give more students the opportunity to share lead experiences.
  • Stage size and cast limits occasionally restrict cast sizes, but we always strive to include everyone.
Empty theater seats under purple stage lights with illuminated stairs
Microphone on stand in a warmly lit, bokeh-filled indoor performance venue

A Note on Professional Ethics — No Part Shopping

TMSOW expects all cast members to conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity. Part shopping—accepting a role in one show and then auditioning elsewhere hoping for a better part before quitting—is considered highly unethical and will not be tolerated here. We have a zero-tolerance policy on part shopping. If you wish to pursue another opportunity after being cast, please resign from your current role before auditioning elsewhere.

Cast and Production Policies

We are an all-inclusive, community-based studio, and we hold our cast and staff to a high standard. Here is what every participant should know:

  • We maintain a strict no-drama policy—gossip, personal conflicts, inappropriate relationships, and disruptive behavior will result in dismissal.
  • Some shows require a participation fee ranging from $100 to $150, never exceeding $200.
  • All cast members receive scripts provided by the licensing agency—scripts must be returned at the end of the production or within two days of withdrawal. Unreturned scripts will be charged to the card on file.
  • Everyone is expected to pitch in — set building, load-in, load-out, props, costumes, and more. No exceptions, even for lead roles

This is community theater at its best—and that means we do it together.

Empty concert stage lit by three bright spotlights in a dark venue