AUDITIONS
August 10th and 11th, 7 - 10pm
Melora Kordos, Director
Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.
Each night of auditions there will be acting, singing and a simple dance call. You should plan to attend only one night of auditions, Monday or Tuesday, not both. Wear comfortable clothes; you do not need to wear any special dance clothing.
When you arrive at the theater you will be given a form to fill out where you give us your contact information and answer a few questions. We need ALL of your conflicts between August 31 and October 25, so please bring those with you.
It’s natural to feel nervous before an audition, and the best way to control this is to be prepared! At Commerce Street Theater we want you to have fun at auditions, to feel confident and relaxed, so we are providing as much information as possible so you can get ready!
Become familiar with the show! Melora, the director, has provided audition scenes for your convenience, separated by characters. Take a look at the character descriptions below and then read the audition scenes.
Prepare your audition. Each night of auditions there will be acting, singing and then a simple dance call. Prepare 16 - 32 bars of a contemporary musical theatre song that’s either folk music-ish or pop rock style. The song is not as important as your use of the song to demonstrate your range and your acting abilities. Choose a portion of your music where you can really show off those pipes! We will not accept recorded accompaniment or any acapella songs. You must bring sheet music. An accompanist will be provided.
You should not perform any music from Come From Away.
Arrive on time to fill out your audition forms. The lobby will be open at 6:30. Forms will be available at that time, and if you don’t have a headshot (not required), we will snap a photo of you. Auditions begin promptly at 7pm and you are expected to stay for the entire evening, 7-10pm.
If you absolutely cannot attend either night of auditions, we will accept a video submission, but seeing you in person is our preference. For information on video submissions, email Nikki Fey-Burgett, managing director, at nikki.cstheater@gmail.com Video submissions are due no later than 9 pm on August 10th.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
Bonnie Harris + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano
The manager of the local SPCA who works tirelessly to care for the animals stranded
aboard grounded aircraft. Compassionate, practical, and deeply devoted to helping
others.
Beulah Davis + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano
The head of the Gander Legion and one of the town's most welcoming residents.
Generous, nurturing, and quick with a joke, Beulah becomes a source of comfort for
many stranded passengers.
Hannah O'Rourke + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano
A mother from New York desperately trying to reach her son, a firefighter in Manhattan.
Strong, resilient, and compassionate, Hannah provides one of the show's most
emotional journeys.
Beverley Bass + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano
An American Airlines captain and pioneering female aviator. Confident, accomplished,
and passionate about flying, Beverley faces uncertainty as the events of September 11
reshape her world.
Janice Mosey + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Soprano
A young local television reporter covering the biggest story of her life. Enthusiastic,
curious, and ambitious, Janice grows significantly throughout the week.
Diane Gray + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano
A divorced woman from Texas worried about her son in New York. Strong-willed,
adventurous, and warm, Diane forms a meaningful bond during her time in Gander.
Claude Elliott + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor
The mayor of Gander, Newfoundland. A natural leader who guides his community
through an extraordinary crisis with warmth, humor, and unwavering determination while
portraying additional townspeople throughout the production.
Nick Marson + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor
A British oil engineer stranded in Gander. Intelligent and reserved, Nick develops an
unexpected connection that changes his life.
Kevin Tuerff + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor
An environmental entrepreneur traveling with his partner. Initially frustrated by the
circumstances, Kevin discovers hope and inspiration through the generosity of
strangers.
Kevin Jung + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Tenor
Kevin Tuerff's partner. Sensitive and deeply affected by the events unfolding around
him, Kevin's journey explores grief, healing, and resilience.
Bob + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor
A New Yorker determined to return home to his family. Initially skeptical and impatient,
Bob develops a newfound appreciation for the kindness of others.
Oz Fudge + Various Characters - Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor
A local constable tasked with helping manage the influx of stranded passengers.
Good-natured, quirky, and dependable, Oz brings humor and heart to the story.