Many students new to theater have no clue what to expect when they step into auditions. Not only are auditions an attempt to get a role, they’re also an attempt to get to know the group and the traditions behind it. Luckily for them, the theater community is full of great people who are willing to explain everything.

“Put yourself out there!” senior actor Kelsey Hill said. “Have confidence in your auditions and if you end up in a lead, great! If not, you’re still talented and amazing, don’t take that as a sign to give up.”

Hill has done theater for 7 years, and her favorite show she’s been in is Arsenic and Old Lace or Once Upon A Mattress.

“You’ll love the family you can build working with theatre people because ‘Theatre is family and family is forever,’” Assistant Director Susan Cobbs said.

Cobbs, who has worked with children and adults in theater productions for 36 years, recommends bringing a friend to auditions if you’re nervous.  If you’re not the performing type, she also suggests signing up for the auditorium technology class to get the hang of crew.

“My favorite part of the show by far has always been being a part of something creative, and giving people a good show,” stage manager and senior Madison Sicilia said.“Hearing friends and family rave about their favorite parts makes me so proud and fulfilled.”

Sicilia has been working behind the scenes in theater since her freshman year, and the upcoming musical will be her eighth and final show. As a stage manager, her main duties include cueing lights and sounds, cueing backstage on their scene changes and keeping track of props. She also helps out during rehearsals.

“Keep[ing] up with the directors blocking and cuing lines for actors, or grabbing random furniture to test out for a scene,” Sicilia said.

Students will have their next chance to audition for a role or join the crew next school year. In the meantime, the FHS production of The Little Mermaid will debut April 16-18.