Introduction

All Ensworth students are eligible and encouraged to audition for a Production or an Ensemble. There are no criteria to sign up for auditions as all are welcome to try out as a first-time experience or as a highly-trained performer. Theatrical Productions and Ensembles are exciting opportunities to learn, grow, connect, and use talents unknown or crafted over time and commitment. The following information will provide an overview of the audition process including criteria and selection.  

Audition Process 

The Ensworth Arts audition process is conducted by the Director of each individual program. Each Program Director is a professional entrusted to conduct auditions in a manner that upholds our Department mission of using our collective talents to the fullest to achieve the highest standard possible. Information regarding dates/times of auditions will be made publicly available to all Ensworth students via the website and/or E-News. Each Performing Arts program has unique criteria for its audition process that will be communicated in the registration form for each audition. 

Audition Criteria 

We are proud that the Ensworth Arts program has established itself as a highly competitive educational performing arts program. Each Performing Arts discipline, ensemble, and production has various criteria evaluated during the audition process. Overall, audition placement for any ensemble or production is based on a holistic approach derived from three general areas: 

• General Performance Ability

• Fit for the Ensemble / Production / Role

• Growth Mindset 

Additional noteworthy facets include:

• Skill Level for the Role

• Overall Contribution to the Ensemble / Cohort / Collective Cast

• Coachable / Teachable 

• Preparation / Readiness 

• Personal Accountability  / History of Behavior and Effort

• Social-Emotional Development of a Student

• Opportunity for Growth and Learning

• Demonstration of continued growth in the art

^{* Please note that the number of years in a particular arts program or enrolled at the Ensworth are not used as criteria in any audition process.}

 

Audition Results and Feedback

There are many complex reasons why final decisions are made under the Director’s informed vision, expertise, guidance, and care. A Director’s final decisions are not and can never be based solely or simply on how talented, deserving, or capable one person is, but rather on the consideration of how well each person’s unique talents and abilities serve the collective group, performance, and given tasks and goals of the moment at hand. What matters is that the right combination of individuals is assembled to perform successfully in service of the entire production, as many parts contribute to the success of the whole.

Audition decisions can result in a wide range of emotions. Therefore, audition decisions will always be relayed to students in a professional, clear, and kind manner. We acknowledge that not all students will receive the news they were hoping for. Thank you for partnering with us in providing your students with a caring and supportive environment as they navigate this learning experience and growth opportunity. We encourage parents and students to observe the following courtesies during and after the audition process: 

• Be respectful and supportive of all students and faculty involved

• All results, once publicly announced, are final

• Please observe a 48-hour wait period after the posting of results before any inquiry 

• After 48 hours, a student can email the Director directly to request a meeting, if desired

^{* A Director will provide constructive feedback, supportive points, and pathways for an individual’s future development instead of making audition notes public or explaining casting or placement decisions.} 

Ensworth, as an educational environment, is committed to providing a positive experience to our students. Directors are available to suggest strategies for improvement, counsel students to enroll in particular classes or seek individual lessons, and in general offer their informed guidance, professional insight, understanding, and encouragement.  Thank you in advance for supporting our mission.

Care and Support

We envision a school community dedicated to following the highest principles with the greatest love. Please be mindful and supportive of all students after auditions; Be there for one another and be respectful in both consolation and congratulations. Please know that the faculty is here to support the students and provide guidance for future development.  

We have an amazing community filled with talented and committed members. We encourage students to acknowledge that no role, part, or job is too small, as every moment on or off the stage lends to the magic experienced by the audience! We strive to create opportunities and environments where students can use their talents to the fullest, and we have established the above best practices to maintain fairness, clarity, and kindness for all involved. Thank you for your understanding, participation, commitment, and support of the Arts at Ensworth.