AUDITION NOTICE: &Juliet - Empire Theatre

Title: &Juliet

Presented By: Empire Theatre, Toowoomba

Genre: Jukebox Pop Musical (Music & Lyrics by Max Martin and Friends; Book by David West Read)

Synopsis: What if Juliet’s ending was really just her beginning? Bursting with pop anthems by artists like Britney Spears, Katy Perry, and the Backstreet Boys, & Juliet flips Shakespeare’s tragedy on its head. With Anne Hathaway (Shakespeare’s wife) taking control of the quill, Juliet embarks on a journey of self-discovery, independence, and joy. A hilarious, heart-filled celebration of love, identity, and rewriting your own story.

Audition Dates: Friday 24 – Monday 27 October 2025

Audition Time:

• Fri 24 Oct: 6:00–9:30pm

• Sat 25 Oct: 9:00am–5:30pm

• Sun 26 Oct: 9:00am–5:30pm

• Mon 27 Oct: 6:00–9:30pm

Audition Location and Address: The Empire Theatre (Church Theatre), 54–56 Neil Street, Toowoomba QLD

Audition Requirements:

• Singing: Prepare two own-choice songs in musical theatre pop style (approx. 32 bars/1 min each). Backing track or accompanist required (no vocals on tracks).

• Acting: Short script excerpt (provided with confirmation email). Prepare lines for max two roles. Cold reads and direction may be given.

• Dance: Compulsory group movement/dance call (taught on the day). Wear clothes you can move in; no jeans, sandals, or restrictive clothing.

• General: Expect 10 mins for sing/act and 45 mins for dance.

• Must be 16+ years (by 1 Dec 2025).

Audition Registration: Apply online

Audition Pack: Download here

Performance Dates:

• Friday 13 March 2026 – 7:30pm

• Saturday 14 March – 7:30pm

• Sunday 15 March – 2:30pm

• Friday 20 March – 7:30pm

• Saturday 21 March – 7:30pm

• Sunday 22 March – 2:30pm (Additional shows may be added to meet demand)

Rehearsal Dates: From Saturday 17 January 2026

Rehearsal Times:

• Saturdays & Sundays: 9:30am–5:30pm

• Mondays & Tuesdays: 6:00–9:30pm

• (Detailed weekly schedule in audition pack. Tech/dress from 7–12 March 2026)

Warnings: Production features mature themes, relationship content, intimacy, and LGBTQIA+ representation. Dance/movement is required for most roles.

Performer Age: 16+

Creative Team:

• Director: Tim Hill

• Choreographer: Tess Hill

• Music Supervisor: Luke Kennedy

Production Website: https://empiretheatre.com.au/auditions

Other Information:

• Orchestra & backstage opportunities available (email: orchestra@empiretheatre.com.au or productions@empiretheatre.com.au)

Available Roles/Character Breakdown:

Principal Roles

• Juliet – Bold, independent, rewriting her own fate. (F3–F#5, strong MT pop belt).

• Anne Hathaway – Witty, assertive wife of Shakespeare; challenges his work and rewrites Juliet’s story. (A3–E5).

• William Shakespeare – The Bard himself, playful, egotistical but reluctantly adaptable. (Db3–Bb4).

• May – Juliet’s non-binary best friend; sensitive, funny, and deeply authentic. (G3–A4, pop).

• Angelique – Juliet’s nurse, loyal but yearning for independence. (E3–E5).

• Francois – Shy, awkward young Frenchman pushed into duty, discovers new love. (Bb2–B4).

• Lance – Francois’s stern father with a surprising soft side. (F2–F4, French accent).

• Romeo – Juliet’s dramatic ex-lover; charming, chaotic, and irresistible. (E3–E5).

Ensemble Roles

• Judith, Richard, Lucy, Eleanor – Shakespeare’s troupe; colourful, comedic, and versatile.

• Lord Capulet / Lady Capulet – Juliet’s authoritative parents; powerful presences.

• Benvolio – Romeo’s loyal, fun-loving best friend (played by femme track).

• Femme Players – Interchanging roles (Susanna, Rosaline, Helena, Portia, etc.); sopranos/altos with belt.

• Masc Players – Interchanging roles (Augustine, Henry, Gregory, etc.); tenor/baritone/bass, strong pop vocals.