“There is never a set rule as to how the musical gets chosen, and that is why I don’t pick a musical until I see auditions,” said Ken Gibson, Director of the Cardinal Spotlight Theater.

“Some schools pick their show and then have auditions. In my opinion, that kind of forces your talent into a role. I prefer to see what talent we have and then try to find a musical that can highlight as many kids as possible.” continues Gibson.

There’s a lot of time and effort that is put in when deciding on the musical and who will be the best fit for each role. It is not always a smooth process as there are some factors that play a big part in what the school can do. Budget is one of the many factors that needs to be considered. Another factor that is put into consideration is the talent the students have that are auditioning.

Students are observed with the following in mind: if they can sing, give some emotion in their lines, and are they responsible and dedicated. Auditioning for a role is something that is not taken lightly. The first time you audition, you are auditioning for next year already.

“How they present themselves with the smallest of roles can lead to bigger roles,” states Gibson.

It is time consuming when it comes down to deciding on the musical for the school year. Gibson said,” I usually have a couple of musicals in mind, some that I have seen, some that we have wanted to do for some time, some that I just know are out there and may be possible for us to do. There is always a list of about 5 or 6 that I keep in the back of my mind from year to year.”

The final decision is typically not made until all the auditions are seen.

When it comes down to picking the final cast. It is not only Mr. Gibson who is deciding on the cast. Ms. Bux, Mrs. Robinson, and Mrs. Demcher are also a part of the decision process.

“From time to time I will bring in outside people, with experience, to also weigh in,” says Gibson. He continues, ” Kamryn Felty, a graduate of PGA and Bloomsburg in Theatre, has come in several times to see auditions and give advice.”