Whether you're a seasoned pro or fresh out of school, musical theatre professionals across the country gear up for an exciting season of outdoor performances, intimate playhouses, and lively festivals come spring. Summer theatres provide unique opportunities to hone your craft, network with fellow artists, and delight audiences under the open sky or in cozy, seasonal venues. Here’s a list of the top ten summer theatres that we think every musical theatre professional should know about:
1. The Muny – St. Louis, Missouri
Why It's Great: As America's oldest and largest outdoor musical theatre, The Muny boasts a nearly 100-year history of top-notch productions. With over 11,000 seats and state-of-the-art facilities, this theatre is a dream stage for any performer.
Pro Tip: The Muny offers internships and seasonal employment, making it a great place to gain experience and build connections.
More Information: https://muny.org/jobs/cast-auditions/
2. New York Stage and Film – Poughkeepsie, New York
Why It's Great: Nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley, this non-profit company collaborates with Marist College to produce the Summer Season. It’s renowned for developing new works and nurturing emerging talent. This residency-based opportunity boasts a collaborative artistic environment.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for their submission opportunities for playwrights and composers. It's a fantastic way to get your work seen by influential industry figures.
More Information:https://www.newyorkstageandfilm.org/work
3. Williamstown Theatre Festival – Williamstown, Massachusetts
Why It's Great: Known for its high-caliber productions and star-studded casts, Williamstown Theatre Festival is a prestigious platform for performers, directors, and designers alike. Alumni include Christopher Reeve, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Bradley Cooper. All seasonal staff are provided housing free of charge on campus at Williams College.
Pro Tip: Apply for their professional training program to work alongside seasoned professionals and gain invaluable experience.
More information: https://wtfestival.org/work-learn/
4. Shakespeare in the Park – New York City, New York
Why It's Great: Hosted in Central Park by The Public Theater, Shakespeare in the Park is an iconic free theatre event. While primarily known for Shakespearean plays, it often includes musical adaptations and new works.
Pro Tip: Audition for the chance to perform in front of a diverse and enthusiastic audience, including some of the industry’s top talent scouts.
More Information: https://publictheater.org/footer/new-careers/
5. Ogunquit Playhouse – Ogunquit, Maine
Why It's Great: This historic theatre has been a staple of the American summer theatre scene since 1933. It’s known for its Broadway-caliber productions and stunning coastal location.
Pro Tip: The Playhouse often casts Equity and non-Equity performers, providing opportunities for actors at various stages of their careers.
More Information: http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org
6. Bay Street Theater – Sag Harbor, New York
Why It's Great: Located in the picturesque Hamptons, Bay Street Theater offers an intimate setting with a strong focus on new works and classics. It’s a beloved venue for both performers and audiences.
Pro Tip: Participate in their New Works Festival to collaborate with playwrights and directors on the cutting edge of theatre.
More Information: https://www.baystreet.org/about/actors-and-playwrights/
7. Barrington Stage Company – Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Why It's Great: Barrington Stage Company is known for its commitment to producing innovative and challenging new musicals. Their productions frequently transfer to Off-Broadway and beyond.
Pro Tip: Their Musical Theatre Lab provides opportunities for composers, lyricists, and book writers to develop new works in a supportive environment.
More Information: https://barringtonstageco.org/about-the-company/casting/
8. Utah Shakespeare Festival – Cedar City, Utah
Why It's Great: This Tony Award-winning festival combines classic Shakespearean plays with contemporary works and musicals. It’s set against the stunning backdrop of Southern Utah’s red rocks.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of their professional training programs and workshops to enhance your skills and expand your network.
More Information: https://www.bard.org/about/employment/
9. Weston Playhouse – Weston, Vermont
Why It's Great: As Vermont’s oldest professional theatre, Weston Playhouse has a reputation for high-quality productions and a charming, rural setting. It’s a great place for both established and emerging artists.
Pro Tip: Their Young Company program is a fantastic entry point for early-career performers looking to break into professional theatre.
More Information: https://westontheater.org/work-here
10. Goodspeed Musicals – East Haddam, Connecticut
Why It's Great: Goodspeed Musicals is synonymous with musical theatre excellence, having launched over 75 world premieres. Its picturesque riverside setting adds to the magic of its productions.
Pro Tip: Submit your work for consideration in their new musicals program, or audition for one of their many summer productions.
More Information: https://www.goodspeed.org
Summer theatres offer a wealth of opportunities for musical theatre professionals to grow, learn, and shine. Whether you're looking to perform, direct, write, or simply immerse yourself in the vibrant world of summer theatre, these ten venues provide the perfect stage for your talents.
Summer stock theatres typically cast between late fall and early spring, with many audition announcements starting as early as November. The primary audition season occurs from January to March, during which large combined auditions such as the United Professional Theatre Auditions (UPTA), the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC), and the New England Theatre Conference (NETC) take place. Callbacks and final rounds often happen in early spring, with offers extending into late March or April. To find audition notices, make sure you're a member of The Casting Connection, so you don't miss any opportunities. Preparing your materials early, staying informed, and attending combined auditions can enhance your chances of landing a summer stock role.
Pack your bags, prepare your monologues, and get ready for an unforgettable summer of theatre magic!