Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to audition to be part of The Wizard of Oz (Youth Edition)?

Yes. All children who wish to be considered for a role in Sefton Spotlights’ 2026 production of The Wizard of Oz (Youth Edition) must attend an audition.

Children who have signed up for the trip to see Wicked in London on 9 September are required to audition in order to secure their place on the trip. Children who are not attending the trip are also very welcome to audition.

Who can audition?

Auditions are open to all children currently in Years 3–5 at Sefton Park Junior School.

Do I have to attend the Summer Club to audition?

No. Children attending Sefton Spotlights Summer Club will benefit from workshops in acting, singing, dancing and audition technique, but auditions are open to all eligible children whether or not they attend the club.

What do I need to prepare?

Every auditionee must prepare:

1. One monologue for a character they would like to play

2. One song excerpt from the show

Some featured roles have specific audition songs. For all other roles, we recommend The Merry Old Land of Oz.

Does my child need to memorise their material?

We strongly encourage children to memorise both their monologue and song. However, if they forget their lines or lyrics during the audition, members of the panel will be happy to prompt them.

What happens if my child does not prepare?

We understand that children may make mistakes, forget lines or need support during the audition. That is completely normal.

However, children who arrive having not learned any of their monologue or song are unlikely to be offered a part, as this suggests they may not yet be ready for the level of commitment required.

What happens during the audition?

Each audition lasts approximately 10 minutes and includes:

• A short introduction and informal chat

• Performance of the prepared monologue

• Performance of the prepared song

• A short choreography and movement task (no preparation required)

Do children need to prepare a dance?

No. Unlike previous years, auditionees do not have to prepare a dance, however there will be a dance and choreography task during the audition. The dance task will be taught during the audition and is designed to assess how children learn and perform movement.

Are there any other changes to this year’s auditions compared to previous years?

Due to the large numbers of auditionees expected, we will be spreading our audition period over two weeks from Friday 3rd July to Friday 17th July.

Can parents stay in the audition room?

Auditions take place with the child and the panel only. Parents and carers are welcome to accompany their child to school and wait nearby.

If your child requires adjustments or support, please let us know in advance.

What if my child is nervous?

Feeling nervous is completely normal and expected. The audition panel will work hard to create a calm, supportive environment and help every child perform at their best.

What if my child has additional needs?

Please tell us about any additional needs or circumstances that may require adjustments when completing the booking form. This may include reading difficulties, attention needs or social and emotional support requirements.

We recognise that fair opportunity does not always mean every audition looks exactly the same.

What happens if my child misses their audition?

Because we expect a very high number of auditionees and have limited staff time, we are unlikely to be able to offer replacement auditions for children who do not attend their scheduled slot.

If your child is unable to attend, please contact us as soon as possible.

What if my child is cast in the ensemble?

The ensemble is one of the most important parts of the production. Ensemble members play multiple roles such as munchkins, winged monkeys, Emerald City citizens, jitterbugs and more.

Ensemble performers are on stage for large portions of the show and learn substantial amounts of singing, acting and choreography.

How much commitment is involved?

All roles require a significant commitment, including:

• Weekly rehearsals

• Lunchtime rehearsals when called

• Learning material at home

• Additional rehearsals as performances approach

When will callbacks take place?

Where required, callbacks will take place during lunchtime on Monday 20 July and Tuesday 21 July 2026.

When will the cast be announced?

Casting will be announced before the end of term on Wednesday 22 July 2026.

What if my child is disappointed with the casting decision?

Casting decisions are made very carefully with the aim of placing each child where they will thrive and contribute most effectively to the production.

Any initial disappointment usually fades quickly once rehearsals begin and children become invested in the show.

Who should I contact if I have questions?

Please contact the Sefton Spotlights team using the usual club communication channels if you have any questions about auditions or the rehearsal process.