Auditions
WCP/BHCT is committed to a policy of open auditions. Our success depends on the full participation of talented and committed people, regardless of their race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Neither experience nor membership is required to audition.
Unless otherwise indicated, auditions will be held in the WCP/BHCT Walker Building at 224 Commercial Street in Waterloo. Interested individuals need only attend one audition session.
Scripts will be available for a week-long perusal with a $10 deposit. Please stop by the WCP/BHCT Walker Building during normal business hours (Tuesday-Friday, 11am-5pm) to pick up a script.
Disney's
Finding Nemo:
A 60-minute Family Musical
Book, Music & Lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez
Book Adapted by Lindsay Anderson
Music & Orchestrations Adapted & Arranged by Myrna Conn
Based on the 2003 Disney/Pixar film Finding Nemo written by Andrew Stanton, Bob Peterson, David Reynolds and directed by Andrew Stanton
Director - Kendra Gliem
Music Director - Casey Tecklenberg
Choreographer - Halie Giegerich
Audition Dates & Times
Monday, July 13 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm & Wednesday, July 15 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm
Production Dates
Friday, September 18 - Sunday, September 27
Audition Location
WCP/BHCT Walker Building
224 Commercial St.
Waterloo, Iowa 50701
Synopsis
Dive into the extraordinary journey of Marlin, a devoted clownfish whose love for his child, Nemo, propels him beyond his fears and into the vast unknown. When adversity strikes and Nemo is swept away to Sydney, Marlin’s unwavering determination transforms every obstacle into an opportunity for growth. Alongside unforgettable companions—like the ever-optimistic Dory, the wise Crush, and the resilient Tank Gang—Marlin discovers that true courage is not the absence of fear, but the resolve to press forward for those we cherish.
The Finding Nemo musical is more than a spectacle; it’s a celebration of hope, resilience, and the power of believing in oneself. It reminds us that even in the deepest waters, the bonds of family and friendship can light the way and encourages everyone to dream boldly, persevere through uncertainty, and never lose faith in the possibility of reunion and self-discovery.
Audition Details
Audition Dates & Times
Monday, July 13 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm & Wednesday, July 15 from 5:30 - 8:30 pm
AUDITIONS FORMAT
Initial auditions will consist of three parts: a vocal (musical) audition, a dance/movement audition, and acting audition with selections chosen from the script
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For the vocal/music auditions: There will be a short excerpt from the show that will be taught to the actors at auditions. Actors may also bring a prepared cut of an additional song to perform (30-45 seconds in length). Bluetooth speakers will be available for those with an accompaniment track.
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For the dance/movement audition: Please wear clothing and footwear (preferrably tennis shoes or any shoes) that allows full movement, and be prepared to learn and perform a short choreographed piece.
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For the acting audition: You will perform cold readings of selections from the musical.
CASTING AND CHARACTER LIST
We are interested in casting people aged 10+ and from a wide range of gender expressions and races. The genders listed in the character descriptions refer to the gender of the character, not the actor. Listed vocal ranges are for characters with solo songs or vocal moments.
Marlin: Nemo's anxious and overprotective father, a clownfish who prefers the safety of his anemone to the unknowns of the open ocean. Vocal range: A2-F4
Nemo: A curious young clownfish, born with a "lucky fin", who brims with a sense of wonder and an eagerness for adventure. Vocal range: A3-Eb5
Dory: An optimistic, bubbly, and sociable blue tang who experiences frequent short-term memory loss. Vocal range: G3-F5
Pearl: one of the Reef Kids, an excitable and friendly flapjack octopus. Vocal range: A3-Eb5
Sheldon: one of the Reef Kids, an H2O-intolerant seahorse with an appetite for trouble.Vocal range: A3-Eb5
Tad: one of the Reef Kids, a self-admittedly obnoxious butterflyfish. Vocal range: A3-Eb5
Professor Ray: Nemo's enthusiastic, encyclopedic stingray teacher. Vocal range: A3-Bb4
Bruce: The intimidating ringleader of the sharks who is dedicated to adopting a vegetarian diet. Vocal range: B2-E4
Anchor: one of Bruce's loyal cronies, a tough shark devoted to the "fish are friends" lifestyle. Vocal range: A3-B4
Chum: One of Bruce's loyal cronies, a determined shark committed to the "fish are friends" lifestyle. Vocal range: B2-E4
Gill: The relentless and inspiring Moorish idol fish and leader of the Tank Gang, with a set of battle scars and a torn fin, who will stop at nothing to return to the freedom of the ocean. Vocal range: B3-C5
Peach: A mature, down-to-earth starfish who offers guidance and reassurance to all; a member of the Tank Gang. Vocal range: B3-C5
Bloat: An open-minded and supportive blowfish who is proud to be part of the Tank Gang. Vocal range: B3-D5
Gurgle: A nervous royal gramma fish who enjoys regulated cleanliness; a member of the tank gang. Vocal range: B3-C5
Crush: A laid-back and encouraging 150-year-old sea turtle who knows how to hang loose. Vocal range: D3-D5
Squirt: The offspring of Crush who also knows how to hang loose. Vocal range: E4-B4
Coral: Nemo's brave mom and Marlin's wife, strong and loving.
Nigel: A friendly, sharp-eyed Australian pelican who is proud to know all the local happenings of Sydney Harbour.
Ensemble An assortment of ocean creatures in the big blue world, including the Reef Parents, Fish “Friends,” Moonfish, Jellyfish, Sea Turtles, and various features (Angelfish, Barracuda, Grouper, Sea Turtle 1 & 2, Lobster1 & 2, Octopus 1 & 2, Electric Eel 1 & 2, Seashorse 1 & 2).
OTHER DETAILS
Auditions will be held in the WCP/BHCT Walker Building. Interested individuals need only attend one audition session. Experienced or first-time performers who enjoy singing, dancing, and acting are invited to audition. WCP/BHCT is committed to a policy of open auditions. Our success depends on the full participation of interested and dedicated people, regardless of their race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Scripts will be available for a week-long perusal with a $10 deposit (cash or check). Please stop by the WCP/BHCT Walker Building during normal business hours (Tuesday-Thursday, 12pm-5pm, Friday 12pm-4pm) to pick up a script.
We will ask you to complete a conflict calendar prior to making casting decisions. It is helpful to bring your conflicts from Monday, July 20-Sunday, September 27 to auditions. Getting involved in a production is no small commitment and while we encourage and welcome one and all, it’s best to fully understand the time commitment and the challenges you may meet if you or a family member gets involved. In order to meet that need, everyone involved needs to be present and doing their job/role.
We will start our rehearsal period on Monday, July 20, 2026. The final technical and dress rehearsals are considered mandatory so we all are fully prepared for our audiences. Please contact Kendra at kendra.gliem@wcpbhct.org if you have any questions or concerns.
~1776~
America’s Prize-Winning Musical
Book by: PETER STONE
Music and Lyrics by: SHERMAN EDWARDS
Based on a concept by: SHERMAN EDWARDS
Original Production Directed by: PETER HUNT
Originally Produced on the Broadway Stage by:
STUART OSTROW
Directed by Greg Holt
Symphony Directed by Jason Weinberger
Choreographed by Mandy Masmar
Music Direction by Ryan Occeña
Stage Managed by Anita Ross
AUDITION DATES
Sunday, July 26 at 2:00
Monday, July 27 at 6:00
*Callbacks (by invitation only) will be Wednesday, July 29
PRODUCTION DATES
October 23-25, 2026
AUDITION VENUE
Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center
(Please enter through doors on west side of GBPAC off Ohio Street)
PLEASE NOTE!
These auditions are for the collaborative artistic venture produced by Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center in conjunction with Waterloo Community Playhouse, Cedar Falls Community Theatre, and the Waterloo/Cedar Falls Symphony. The auditions will be held at the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center.
SYNOPSIS
It’s the summer of 1776, and the nation is ready to declare independence, if only our founding fathers can agree to do it! 1776 follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they attempt to convince the members of the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from the shackles of the British monarchy by signing the Declaration of Independence.
America’s founding and our founding fathers have become a type of mythology and folklore for most Americans. These men are often viewed as God-like figures but in 1776 that belief was questioned. We see our founding fathers make mistakes, have flaws, and participate in the same political theatre that still happens to this day.
AUDITIONS FORMAT
Initial auditions will consist of three parts: a vocal (musical) audition, a dance/movement audition, and acting audition with selections chosen from the script
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For the vocal/music auditions: 16-32 bars/1 minute max from the show or similar musical and you will need to bring sheet music or a preferred instrumental music track. No acapella auditions please.
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For the dance/movement audition: Please wear clothing and footwear that allows full movement potential, and be prepared to learn and perform a short choreographed piece.
-
For the acting audition: You will perform cold readings of selections from the musical.
CASTING & CHARACTER LIST
We are seeking to develop a cast that celebrates the diversity of America and, therefore, are interested in casting people from a wide range of ages, gender expressions, and races. The genders listed in the character descriptions refer to the gender of the character, not the actor. Listed vocal ranges are for characters with solo songs or vocal moments.
DR. JOSIAH BARTLETT (30s-40s) A New Hampshire delegate who sides in favor of independence.
JOHN HANCOCK (30s-40s) President of the 1776 Continental Congress. John Hancock put the first and largest signature on the Declaration of Independence.
JOHN ADAMS (30s-40s) A Massachusetts delegate, John Adams is the leading voice for separation from England and the Declaration of Independence. Unfortunately his tendency toward fiery rhetoric makes him
generally disliked by other Congress members.Vocal Range: C3-F#4
STEPHEN HOPKINS. (50s-60s) Crusty old geezer who is given to indulgence in alcoholic beverages.
ROGER SHERMAN (50s-60s) A Connecticut delegate, Sherman sides in favor of independence and is on the committee to write the Declaration.
LEWIS MORRIS (40s-50s) Lead delegate of New York, who abstains from every vote.
ROBERT LIVINGSTON (20s-30s) A New York delegate, Robert Livingston is a member of the committee assigned to write the Declaration.
REVEREND JOHN WITHERSPOON (30s-50s) NON-SINGING ROLE. A New Jersey delegate. He argues for, and wins, the inclusion of the Supreme Being in the Declaration. Supporter of Independence.
BENJAMIN FRANKLIN (50s-60s) A Pennsylvania delegate, Benjamin Franklin is urbane and cool headed. His logic often prevails where the emotions of others fail. He and Adams lead the charge for independence. Vocal Range: Ab2-Eb4
JOHN DICKINSON (30s-40s) A Pennsylvania delegate, John Dickinson leads a group of Congress members who favor petitioning King George III with their grievances rather than declaring independence from England. He represents the conservative side of Congress, the wealthy landowners who do not want to break from Great Britain. Vocal Range A2-E4
JAMES WILSON (20s-30s) A Pennsylvania delegate, James Wilson casts the final vote to approve the Declaration.
CAESAR RODNEY (30s-40s) A Delaware delegate, Caesar Rodney works hard for independence, despite the fact that he is suffering from skin cancer.
COLONEL THOMAS McKEAN (30s-40s) A Delaware delegate, Colonel Thomas McKean is Scottish and is very loud and vocal with his thick accent.
GEORGE READ (30s-40s) A Delaware delegate, George Read is opposed to independence and sides with Dickinson.
SAMUEL CHASE (20s-30s) A Maryland delegate, Samuel Chase always seems to be eating and is portly. He initially sides with Dickinson.
RICHARD HENRY LEE (30s-40s) A Virginia delegate, Richard Henry Lee is selected to make the argument for independence to the Congress, as Adams is having little luck.
THOMAS JEFFERSON (20s-30s) A Virginia delegate, Thomas Jefferson, in spite of his many protests, is selected to pen the Declaration of Independence. Vocal Range C3-G4
JOSEPH HEWES (30s-40s) A North Carolina delegate, his main characteristic is that he is always deferring to Edward Rutledge of South Carolina. He is against Independence.
EDWARD RUTLEDGE (20s-30s) A South Carolina delegate, Edward Rutledge is opposed to the Declaration of Independence.Vocal Range C3-A5
DR. LYMAN HALL (40s-50s) Physician and pastor and a Georgia delegate, Dr. Lyman Hall initially sides with Dickinson.
SECRETARY CHARLES THOMPSON (16-40) The secretary of the Congress.
ANDREW McNAIR (16-50s) In the show, he is portrayed as a quirky, exasperated man who lights the fires and candles, opens and closes the windows, fills the ink wells, and keeps the Continental Congress meeting room clean. This is a non-singing role.
THE LEATHER APRON (15-20) Young apprentice in training to learn McNair’s custodial trade.
THE COURIER (plays 15-20) A young messenger for Congress. Vocal Range C3-Db4
ABIGAIL ADAMS (20s- 30s) Wife of John Adams, her communications with John tell some of the story of the Declaration and much of the story of her and John’s love and life. Vocal Range Db4-F5
MARTHA JEFFERSON (20s-30s) The young and beautiful wife of Thomas Jefferson, Martha Jefferson is brought to Philadelphia to help dispel Jefferson’s writer’s block. Vocal Range Bb3-D5
GEORGE WASHINGTON (30s-40s) The leader of the Continental army. He reads the dispatches he sends to the Continental Congress. This is a non-singing role.
ENSEMBLE ROLES (various ages) Potential for featured Movers/Dancers to support transitions and music numbers.
OTHER DETAILS
Auditions will be held in the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center on the UNI campus. Interested individuals need only attend one audition session. Neither experience nor membership is required to audition. Experienced or first-time performers who enjoy singing, dancing, and acting are invited to audition. All roles are open and available. Our success depends on the full participation of interested and dedicated people, regardless of their race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Scripts will be available for a week-long perusal with a $10 deposit. Please contact Greg Holt at greg@mycfct.org or Anita Ross at anita.ross@wcpbhct.org for a script or more information.
We will ask you to complete a conflict calendar prior to making casting decisions. It is helpful to bring your conflicts from Sunday, July 26-Sunday, October 25 to auditions. Getting involved in a production is no small commitment and while we encourage and welcome one and all, it’s best to fully understand the time commitment and the challenges you may meet if you or a family member gets involved.
We will start our rehearsal period around July 30, 2026. The final technical and dress rehearsals are considered mandatory so we all are fully prepared for our audiences.
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