AUDITION FOR: AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre is seeking 5-10 volunteer actors, ages 18+, for the January 2026 production of Ain’t Misbehavin’. We are looking for a company of strong, BIPOC performers who are impactful storytellers, skillful singers, thoughtful collaborators, and joyful artists. Musicians with a strong Blues and Jazz background are also encouraged to audition!
Auditions are open to the public and will take place on Friday, October 24th, starting at 6pm, and Saturday, October 25th, at 4pm.
Callbacks are by invitation only on Monday, October 27th, starting at 6pm.
Performance dates are January 16th-February 1st; Wednesdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2:00pm.
Rehearsals begin Monday, November 10th. Note: No rehearsals from December 23rd-January 1st due to the holidays.
PRODUCTION TEAM: Erica Soto | Director, Vanessa Allen | Music Director, Lewis Richards | Choreographer
ABOUT THE SHOW:
A saucy, sultry musical celebration of legendary jazz great, Fats Waller, Ain’t Misbehavin’ evokes the delightful humor and infectious energy of this American original as a versatile cast struts, strums and sings the songs that he made famous in a career that ranged from uptown clubs to downtown Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood and concert stages in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
“…the beautifully varied arrangements, the whole thing is exhilarating. Go and exhilarate yourself.” – New York Times
Rated: PG-13 for mature themes including some lyrics and dialogue that may contain slang or suggestive language from the time period
Ain’t Misbehavin’ is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
HOW TO AUDITION: Click on the buttons below to get started. Note: If you are a returning auditoner to Grand Rapids Civic Theatre you may notice some differences to the process and grct.org/audition. All pertinent forms, links, and documents can now be found on this page of our website. Refer to this page at grct.org/audition for all questions and resources to prepare for your audition.
Start by clicking HERE to read the Audition Guide that is specific to Ain’t Misbehavin’.
JOIN US FOR… auditions!
Note that auditions dates below are tentative and may shift slightly; be sure to confirm audition dates and times in the official audition notices. Notices are posted here approximately 4-6 weeks prior to the audition dates.
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Performances: January 16 – February 1
Auditions: Friday, October 24, 6pm; Saturday, October 25, 4pm
Callbacks: Monday, October 27, 6pm
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Callbacks Wednesday, January 7, 6pm
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Auditions: Friday, February 6, 6pm; Saturday, February 7, 4pm
Callbacks: Monday, February 9, 6pm
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Performances: June 5 – 28, 2026
Auditions: Friday, February 20, 6pm; Saturday, February 21, 12pm
Callbacks: Monday, February 23, 6pm
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Learn more about the ’25/26 season at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre:
Auditioning for a Show…
Is there a place for me?
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre is a community theatre, which means that all the actors who perform on our stage are a collection of individuals from West Michigan who have a talent and interest in theatre arts and volunteer their time. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned actor, you are welcome to audition at Civic! It’s not uncommon for newcomers to be the star of the show, or a part of the ensemble! On average, approximately 30%-40% of Civic’s volunteer performers are new, either to our community or our theatre. GRCT welcomes all genders and non-conforming individuals, all races and ethnicities, and artists of all ages and body types. With each season offering a variety of musicals and plays, we are excited to offer a little something for everyone.
Audition Notices
This page is your best resource for updated information regarding audition dates and times, casting needs, and rehearsal schedules. You’ll find audition notices posted on this page approximately 4-6 weeks in advance; in addition, all notices are posted on Civic’s Facebook and Instagram. Follow us on social to stay informed!
What to expect at an audition
Those planning to audition for a Play will be asked to read from the script. For Musical auditions, prepare 16-32 measures of a memorized song and bring sheet music that includes a piano accompaniment line. Musical auditions will also include a dance audition.
What to expect at a callback
Those that are asked to return for Play Callbacks will read from the script. Musical Callbacks consist of reading from the script, singing songs from the show, and learning additional dance choreography.
Audition Workshops AND CLASSES
Civic Theatre’s School of Theatre Arts offers workshops and classes designed to help you prepare specifically for an audition. Please check our current Education page f
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