What Are Outdoor Dramas?

From Texas in Canyon, TX, to The Lost Colony on Roanoke Island, NC, more than 30 original plays based on historical events and performed where they occurred--employ 3,000 actors, singers, dancers and technicians each summer.

Outdoor theatre offers an unconventional environment for actors and technicians to expand their skills while gaining invaluable experience in a large-cast, long-run production. The Institute of Outdoor Drama sponsors the only combined auditions bringing outdoor historical dramas, performers and technicians to one place. Outdoor historical dramas offer some of the nation's most exciting summer theatre employment opportunities.

What About These Auditions?

On Saturday, March 15, 2008, approximately 12 outdoor historical dramas from across the country will hold auditions at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for summer jobs as performers and technicians. The auditions, sponsored by the Institute of Outdoor Drama, are open to anyone 18 or older with previous theatre experience. Jobs require a nine- to 12-week commitment, including two weeks of rehearsal.

Note: Deadline for the RECEIPT of your application is Thursday, March 6, 2008. A $45 non-refundable registration fee is required.

What Kind of Job Can I Get?

Although most jobs are non-union, some companies may hire union actors and offer contracts leading toward Union membership through the Actor's Equity Association Membership Candidacy Program. Outdoor historical drama is rich in opportunities for performers and technicians to hone their skills. The productions need the expertise of stunt or combat professionals, pyrotechnicians, and horseback riders. Staff skilled in design, installation and maintenance of equipment for sound, electronic vocal reinforcment, special effects and lighting are also in demand.

For a list of companies attending the 2008 auditions click here.

What Do I Need to Do?

Auditioning Actors/Singers will be given 90 seconds for a monologue and song and may offer another selection at callback interviews. Actors only or Singers only will be given 60 seconds (one minute) for a song or monologue. Dancers are led through warm-ups, combinations and routines featuring a variety of choreography.

For application and information click on Audition Registration.

Bonus: Get The Inside Scoop from the Casting Directors

On Friday evening, March 14, from 7 pm - 8:30 pm, on the campus of The University of NC at Chapel Hill, casting and artistic directors from theatres participating in the National Outdoor Drama Auditions will talk about what makes a great audition. Registered applicants for the March 15 auditions may participate. Click above link for more information.

Is That It?

Not by a long shot. We've got:

• a map to Chapel Hill, NC
• and a map of the UNC-CH campus (which shows where auditions are being held), hotel and motel information for Chapel Hill, Durham and the Research Triangle Park
• information regarding the actual day of auditions - where to go, when to get there, etc.

I Still Need More Information.

That's okay. Just drop us an email, call us at (919) 962-1328 or fax us at (919) 962-4212. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Break A Leg!