Auditions for a fresh perspective in A New Brain

IN BRIEF
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Auditions are being held for the vibrant production of A New Brain, a musical created by Tony Award-winning authors William Finn and James Lapine. This uplifting show explores the transformative power of love and art as it embraces a diverse and inclusive casting approach. All roles are available in an ensemble format, welcoming performers from all backgrounds to showcase their talents. Auditions will occur on August 26 and 27 at St. Bart's Church in New York City, with rehearsals kicking off on September 6. Participants are encouraged to prepare a contemporary musical theater song that highlights their unique talents and personality.
Get ready for a thrilling experience as the St. Bart’s Players prepare to hold auditions for the vibrant musical A New Brain. This production, filled with emotion and creativity, offers a unique opportunity for performers looking to showcase their talents. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of the auditions, what you need to prepare, and why this musical is a must-see.
Understanding A New Brain
A New Brain is a musical that combines the thrilling talents of William Finn and James Lapine, the extraordinary creatives behind Falsettos and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. This show is celebrated for its life-affirming message about the healing powers of love and art, making it an exciting piece for both audiences and performers alike. The show follows the story of a composer who faces a life-threatening situation, prompting him to navigate through love, creativity, and self-discovery. This layered narrative not only resonates with performers but also invites them to bring their own interpretations to the stage.
Details of the Audition Process
The St. Bart's Players are inviting performers to step forward and take part in this ensemble show. With open casting available, all roles are up for grabs. This non-union, non-paid production provides a great entry point for aspiring actors and experienced performers who wish to experiment with new roles. The auditions will be held at the St. Bart’s Players Community House on 50th Street, offering a chance to impress the directors and score a spot in this amazing production.
When and Where to Audition
Mark your calendars for the audition dates! The auditions will take place on August 26th and August 27th, starting at 7 PM for members and 7:30 PM for non-members. Performers are encouraged to arrive at St. Bartholomew’s Church to enter through the Community House at 109 East 50th Street. Be sure to arrive early, as late arrivals may not be accommodated! Callbacks will be on August 28th, so ensure your performance is unforgettable!
What to Prepare for the Audition
To make a strong impression, participants need to bring specific items for the audition. A recent headshot is mandatory; if you don’t have one, the team will take a photo on-site. Additionally, you’ll need a copy of your resume and a list of conflicts on the audition form calendar. It’s crucial to note that having excessive conflicts may impact casting decisions. Prepare a 32-64 bar cut of a contemporary musical theater song that aligns with the style of the show, showcasing your unique personality and acting prowess, complete with sheet music in the right key.
Diverse and Inclusive Environment
The St. Bart's Players prioritize creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for all artists involved. They respect every individual's race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, education, disability, and physical characteristics. This commitment to diversity allows performers to feel valued while contributing their unique perspectives to the ensemble.
A Glimpse into the Rehearsals
Once cast, rehearsals are set to commence on September 6th, culminating in seven exciting performances during the production run from September 6, 2025 - November 2, 2025. Rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7 PM to 10 PM, with Saturday sessions from noon to 5 PM at St. Bart’s. This schedule allows performers ample time to perfect their craft leading up to the show’s premiere at THE 14Y THEATER AT 14TH STREET AND 1ST AVE, NY, NY.
Member Dues
While you don’t need to be a member to audition, those who are cast must pay annual dues of $75, or just $25 if you’re under 25. This is a small investment towards being part of a long-standing community theater that has entertained audiences since its founding in 1927. An incredible opportunity for anyone looking to experience the vibrant theater scene in New York City!
Resources to Aid Your Preparation
Be sure to explore a variety of resources to help you prepare for the auditions and the show itself. Whether you seek audition tips or song selections, look no further than:
- Backstage Audition Listings
- Old Library Theatre Updates
- Yale College Arts Audition Packet
- Reddit Acting Community
- Theatre Trip Audition Songs
The Atmosphere of A New Brain
Envision the atmosphere: electrifying energy fills the room as talented individuals unite to create something beautiful. With each audition, the excitement grows. Auditioning for A New Brain is not just about showcasing talent; it’s about sharing stories, emotions, and connecting with others on a personal level. The collaborative spirit will make every rehearsal fulfilling, offering a chance to create unforgettable moments on stage.
Final Thoughts on Auditions
Participating in auditions for A New Brain is an incredible opportunity for performers from all walks of life. Regardless of experience, your voice matters! Embrace the process, and let your passion shine. You never know what awaits you as you step into the world of theater, potentially discovering talents and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Testimonials on Auditions for a Fresh Perspective in A New Brain
"The moment I walked into the audition space, I could feel the energy buzzing. It was fantastic to be a part of such a passionate group of performers. This isn’t just an audition; it’s an opportunity to connect with artists who share the same love for musical theater!"
"I was blown away by the inclusivity at the St. Bart’s Players audition. They truly welcome everyone regardless of background and experience. It felt amazing to be acknowledged as a unique individual during the casting process."
"Preparing for the audition was a blast! I chose a song that allowed me to showcase my personality and I felt really confident doing it. The atmosphere was so supportive, and that made all the difference. This show is about love and art, and I felt that right from the start."
"As someone who’s dabbled in different roles on stage, I found the audition process refreshing. They’re looking for a diverse ensemble, and that made me feel like my unique traits were celebrated rather than scrutinized."
"Rehearsals kicking off soon got me excited. Knowing that I’ll be part of this beautiful journey really amps up the thrill of acting in a show like A New Brain. I can’t wait to transform my energy and creativity into something special with this amazing crew."