Bailey Theater buzzed with excitement Aug. 26 as students gathered to audition for Homewood’s upcoming production of “Seussical.”
This musical, known for its whimsical characters and lively storytelling, drew a diverse group of aspiring performers eager to showcase their talents under the guidance of longtime theater and creative writing teacher Amy Marchino.
Marchino gave insight into the inner workings of the audition process and expressed her excitement for the production.
“The music is really hard,” she said. “I’m excited [the new cast] get to learn that amount of music and show off their skills.”
She emphasized that the audition process is crucial in selecting the right performers, stating that she looks for energy, expression, and the ability to command the stage.
As students filed into the auditorium, the atmosphere was a mix of nervous anticipation and spirited enthusiasm. Many auditionees gathered in small groups, rehearsing their lines and songs over and over.
Thirty-seven students, approximately the same turnout as for last year’s musical, auditioned for 25 roles in the production, eight of which were leading roles.
Sophomore Zoey Honeycutt auditioned for “Seussical” after being a lead performer in last year’s “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” She said her prior experience with musical theater prepared her for the audition in a specific way.
“I drank a lot of tea,” she said. “A lot, with honey. And I went through a whole pack of cough drops.”
Beyond that, Honeycutt said she locked herself in her basement and just sang. Another sophomore auditioning, Victoria Evans, took a different approach.
“I kicked my parents out of the house, and then I sang my song over and over again until I felt confident,” she said.
Evans also took voice lessons, where her teacher gave her tips on acting and singing.
“I think I’m more nervous because last year I went and didn’t get a callback,” Evans said. “But to be fair, it was my first audition. I had never done a musical before, and I was a freshman, so it wasn’t a shocker. Now I’m older and have done more stuff.”
Shows are Nov. 18, 19, 20, and 22 at 7 p.m. Tickets will be available on GoFan.
