Keystone Theatrics at The Playhouse at Allenberry Announces Auditions for A Christmas Story!
Directed and Choreographed by Dena McKell
Stage Managed by Morgan Vallie
Music Direction by Brandon Bitner
*Seeking Vocal Director*
Show Description
Join us for a heartwarming holiday classic brought to life on stage! Based on the beloved 1983 film, A Christmas Story: The Musical follows young Ralphie Parker on his quest for the ultimate Christmas gift, an official Red Ryder® BB gun. Packed with lively songs, hilarious moments, and nostalgic charm, this delightful musical captures the spirit of the season and the magic of childhood dreams. A festive treat for the whole family!
In-Person Auditions Required for Youth
Due to the nature of the show, auditions must be held in person for children ages 8-14.
Adults may submit a virtual audition to companymanager@
If you are absolutely unable to attend in person, under the age of 14, and still wish to be considered, please contact companymanager@
YOUTH AUDITIONS (Ages 8-14): Sunday, September 28th- 5:00pm
GENERAL AUDITIONS (Ages 15+): Tuesday, September 30th- 5:00pm
*ALL cast members over the age of 18 are required to have volunteer Child Abuse and PA State Police clearances if cast*
CALLBACKS: Thursday, October 2nd – 6:00pm (all ages by invitation only if needed)
WHAT TO PREPARE:
- 20-32 Bars (Roughly a minute) of an upbeat song in a contemporary style (i.e. Elf, Charlie and Chocolate Factory, Tuck Everlasting, etc).
AUDITIONS WILL ALSO INCLUDE:
- Cold readings from the script
- Dance Audition-come dressed appropriately to move!
- Note – there will also be a tap audition so bring taps IF you have them
Character Descriptions and Suggested Playing Ages:
Performers ages 8 and older are welcome to audition. Experienced or first-time performers who enjoy singing, dancing, and acting are invited to audition. Unless strictly and specifically mandated from the playwright, all roles are open and available to anyone regardless of race, ethnicity, or body type.
Principal Adult Roles:
JEAN SHEPHERD/NARRATOR:
Late 40s to early 50s. A charismatic storyteller with a dynamic speaking voice, who can draw an audience into the world of the play. Radio personality. He (like his younger self) has a twinkle in his eye. An actor with presence and spark. A good-natured curmudgeon. Midwestern.
THE OLD MAN (Husband/Father):
Late 30s-40s. He has a good heart, but it is buried under a rough exterior. He’s not the perfect father by any means, he is happiest when he’s tinkering in the basement. He usually expects the worst but is secretly a dreamer. A devoted husband/father, who loves his family but does not feel the need to show it. Actor must be comfortable working with kids.
VOICE: high baritone or tenor, must sing to a high G.
MOTHER:
30s-40s. She is more in charge than she would ever let anyone know. Warm but tough. Strong willed, straight forward, no nonsense, likable, midwestern, kind of every-mom. Actress must be comfortable working with kids.
VOICE: contemporary mezzo with a strong mix, sings low G to high Db.
MISS SHIELDS:
Mid 20’s – 40’s. She is Ralphie’s elementary school teacher. Perhaps a little boring looking at first – ah but underneath! Great with comedy. Character woman. An actress with a flexible voice who is comfortable singing both legit and contemporary Broadway. Great mover and comfortable with tap. Actress must be comfortable working with kids.
VOICE: Soprano 1. Fierce belter and vocal stylist.
Principal Youth Roles:
RALPHIE:
9-12 (to play 9, going on 10) A regular kid, cute but not overly handsome, not precious. He wouldn’t be lost in a crowd, but he wouldn’t stand out either. Bright, but not precocious; the boy next door. Ralphie above all is a dreamer. Seeking a young boy who is comfortable and honest on stage. Must be an excellent singer and able to carry a show.
VOICE: Boy’s unchanged voice. High belter, low F# to high D. Being able to tap dance is a big plus.
RANDY:
8-9. Ralphie’s younger brother. Can be a bit awkward and offbeat; admires his big brother, Ralphie, but won’t admit it. Seeking a young boy who is comfortable and honest on stage.
VOICE: Boy’s unchanged voice. High belter, low F# to high C#. Must be able to tap.
SCUT FARCUS:
12-14. Must be 5’ or shorter. The classic bully; tough, perhaps taller than the other kids; there’s nothing about him you want to like. He’s that kid you always made sure to avoid in school. Gruff character voice. Must be able to tap.
Additional Youth Roles:
Schwartz Flick, Esther Jane, Mary Beth, Nancy, Goggles Kid Can-Can Girls, Can-Can Girlfriend, Waiter’s Daughter, Kid Ensemble (All kids need to sing and dance, tap preferred)
Additional Teen/Adult Ensemble & Featured Roles:
Elves, Delivery Men, Townspeople (Men and Women) Prairie Ensemble: Villain, Bankrobbers, Escaped Prisoner, Mrs. Schwartz, Flick’s Mom, Nancy’s Mother, Bartender, Policeman Fireman, Doctor, Nurse, Waiter (All adults need to sing and be comfortable with some dancing. Strong dancers needed)