As with all ACO productions, auditions are open to anyone wishing to perform. Experience is helpful but not necessary and each season a number of newcomers are cast along with experienced performers to provide the rich tapestry of theatrical pleasures Northwest Arkansas has come to expect of its oldest and foremost community based Arts Center. From the beginning in 1967, the Arts Center of the Ozarks has had a varied and rich history in providing quality arts entertainment and education to Northwest Arkansas.

Auditioning for ACO Productions

     The Arts Center of the Ozarks holds open auditions for all its Main Stage and Child's Play theatre productions. Audition dates and times are posted on our web site as well as published in our local newspapers. You can also obtain the Season's auditions list by being in our Actor's file where you'll also obtain important and interesting updates through e-mail and regular mail.

The Arts Center does not require previous stage experience to audition, just your talent and willingness to be part of the production. During the audition, which is a cold reading, you will be required to read something from the script for the current show. If it's a musical and you wish to have a principal or secondary role you should come prepared with a song from the show to perform. People interested in chorus parts will be asked to sing together in small groups. Sometimes if dance is an integral part of the show you may be asked to perform some simple routine taught to you at the audition. An accompanist will be provided.

     If you are not cast, please don't be discouraged. There are many opportunities during our year for actors. Continue to audition to gain confidence and experience. Understand there are many factors that figure into casting. Your talent and ability, while a major factor, may not be the issue in not being cast. The overall picture is a primary concern as the director casts the show.

Auditions for the Arts Center of the Ozarks theatre productions is an easy and actor-friendly process. It can be less stressful if you know what to do and what to expect. After all, the whole point of the audition is to show off what you've got, right? Below are some tips that will help make your audition easier and in the end, more productive for you.

2008-2009 Theatre Season Audition Dates

AUDITION DATES FOR ANYTHING GOES:  May 5 and 6 at 7:30pm

AUDITION DATES FOR FIRST BAPTIST OF IVY GAP: July 21, 22 at 7:30pm

AUDITION DATES FOR I'M SORRY THE BRIDGE IS OUT, YOU'LL HAVE TO SPEND THE NIGHT:  Sept 8, 9 at 7:30pm

AUDITIONS DATES FOR THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER:  September 13, at 1:00pm

AUDITION DATES FOR ANNE OF GREEN GABLES: September 15, 16 at 7:30pm

AUDITION DATES FOR A MURDER ANNOUNCED: December 15, 16 at 7:30pm

AUDITION DATES FOR HANSEL & GRETEL: January, 12, 13 at 7:30pm. 

AUDITION DATES FOR THE ODD COUPLE:  February 16 and 17 at 7:30pm

AUDITION DATES FOR SMOKE ON THE MOUNTAIN: February 9, 10 at 7:30pm

***Setting the calendar can be tricky as we try to dodge major sporting events and NWA school system's testing calendars each year.  Some dates may change because of circumstances beyond our control due***

Audition Tips:

• Always be prepared. Read the script or watch the movie. There is no excuse for not knowing something about the show. Materials are usually available for 24 hour perusal basis before the auditions with a deposit, or check local libraries or bookstores.

• If it's a musical, choose something from the show to sing. Do not rely on a recording to use at auditions. Everyone will be asked to sing with piano accompaniment. Singing acappella is not allowed. You must be able to match pitch.

• Wear comfortable clothes. There's no need to "costume" the part. Wear sensible shoes, no flip flops. Keep your hair away from your face. Find a comfortable position and stand still.

• Speak in a voice that can be heard; this is a play, not a film. Project your voice and yourself to the back of the house. No one ever lost a part for speaking too loud.

• Be comfortable and be yourself. Try to assume the character for which you are reading. Be as conversational as possible when speaking the dialogue.

• Know what outside commitments you may have from audition dates through performances before you arrive. Be truthful about any dates you may need to be absent.

• Play casts are notified by email or phone if cast, and by letter if not cast.