TOTEM POLE PLAYHOUSE 2025 SEASON - GETTYSBURGH, PA EPA
Totem Pole Playhouse | Fayetteville, PA
LOCATION
Majestic Theatre
25 Carlisle St
Gettysburg, PA 17325-1802
PERSONNEL
Expected to attend:
Producer, Director: Ryan B Gibbs
Musical Director: Steve Zumbrun
See breakdown for production specific personnel.
OTHER DATES
2025 Summer Season runs from May 30th through August 31st.
Holiday Season runs December 3rd through December 14th.
See breakdown for production specific dates.
OTHER
We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. If you require reasonable accommodations to apply for a position or participate in the hiring process, please contact Ryan B. Gibbs at
casting@totempoleplayhouse.org.
An Equity Monitor will not be provided. The producer will run all aspects of this audition.
Equity’s contracts prohibit discrimination. Equity is committed to diversity and encourages all its employers to engage in a policy of equal employment opportunity designed to promote a positive model of inclusion. As such, Equity encourages performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and ages, as well as performers with disabilities, to attend every audition.
Always bring your Equity Membership card to auditions.
AUDITION DATE
Sunday, January 26, 2025
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (E)
APPOINTMENTS
To schedule an audition appointment please go to:
Sign Up Genius.
CONTRACT
LOA
$811 weekly minimum (Ref. to COST)
SEEKING
Equity actors for roles in Totem Pole Playhouse's 2025 Season (See breakdown).
Actors of all ethnicities, backgrounds, gender identities, body types, and abilities for all available roles are encouraged to audition.
The Caledonia Theatre Company at Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants for employment and to providing equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local laws.
You may also sign-up for a brief stage management interview.
PREPARATION
If you are auditioning for a Musical - Please prepare a short song in a style appropriate to the season’s shows. Be prepared to sing an additional contrasting selection if requested. Also, please have a short monologue (45 seconds) prepared that is appropriate to the style of the season, in case requested. Bring sheet music and your repertoire book; an accompanist will be provided. If you are auditioning for a non-singing role in a Musical or roles in the plays - Please prepare a short monologue (1 Minute) that is appropriate to the style of the season. All should bring their headshots and resumes stapled together.
BREAKDOWN
Totem Pole Playhouse 2025 Season
2025 is Totem Pole’s 75th Anniversary Season and we are excited to celebrate with you!
The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania’s premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking performers to join us for our legendary 75th award-winning 4-show season. With its stellar industry reputation, the New York Times has described Totem Pole Playhouse as “the Cadillac of summer theaters.”
Our standard process includes 10-14 days of studio rehearsals, costume fittings, and press activities. This is followed by three and a half days of technical and dress rehearsals, which includes a single 10 out of 12 rehearsal and culminates in one invited dress rehearsal.
Our performance run typically consists of 12-20 performances depending on the title. Mondays are consistently scheduled as days off, and once we get through opening weekend, Fridays are often dark/no performance as well.
While Totem Pole Playhouse does not own housing, we provide accommodations for guest artists through various arrangements. These include apartments and dormitories at local colleges, Airbnb rentals, and housing provided by local hosts. Our housing locations are generally within a range of 2 to 15 miles from the playhouse. Additionally, we have a handful of company cars available to assist with local travel logistics.
THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES
Directed by Ryan B. Gibbs
Choreographer: Jennifer Reed
REH: 5/13/25 (on or around)
OPEN: 5/30/25
CLOSE: 6/8/25
SYNOPSIS: The Marvelous Wonderettes is a jukebox musical following a high school girl group as they perform at their 1958 prom and a decade later at their reunion. Featuring classic 1950s and 1960s hits, the show blends humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt stories of friendship and growth.
Special note: This performance will feature a virtual orchestra with tracks being operated by a conductor
SEEKING:
The characters are teenagers in Act One and women in their late 20s in Act Two.
Cindy Lou: Confident, flirtatious, and occasionally self-centered, Cindy Lou takes the spotlight often. Strong vocal ability with emotional depth. Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano (belt and mix), E3 – F5 Age Range: 18–28.
Missy: Sweet, nerdy, and earnest. The organizer of the group, Missy has precise comedic timing and impressive soprano vocals. Vocal Range: Soprano (with strong mix), G3 – A5 Age Range: 18–28.
Suzy: Bubbly, ditzy, and charming, Suzy provides much of the comic relief. Strong vocals and emotional vulnerability. Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano (belt), G3 – E5 Age Range: 18–28.
Betty Jean: The class clown and tomboy, Betty Jean is energetic and funny but carries some emotional weight. Strong belting skills and comedic timing are essential. Vocal Range: Alto/ Mezzo-Soprano (belt), D3 – E5 Age Range: 18–28.
9 TO 5: THE MUSICAL
Directed by: Ryan B. Gibbs
Musical Direction: Darren Server
REH: 6/3/25 (on or around)
OPEN: 6/20/25
CLOSE: 7/6/25
SYNOPSIS: “9 to 5: The Musical” is a lively and empowering comedy based on the iconic 1980 film, featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton. Set in the late 1970s, the story follows three office workers — Violet, Judy, and Doralee — who band together to overthrow their sexist, egotistical, and tyrannical boss. Filled with catchy songs, hilarious antics, and heartfelt moments, 9 to 5: The Musical is a feel-good tale of friendship, female empowerment, and standing up for what’s right.
Special note: This performance will feature a virtual orchestra with tracks being operated by a conductor
SEEKING:
Strong comedic timing is essential for all principal and featured roles. Vocal range and ability to harmonize are important for ensemble members. Roles like Roz, Margaret, and Franklin Hart Jr. rely heavily on physical comedy.
Violet Newstead: A smart, efficient, and no-nonsense office manager who is often overlooked for promotions due to her gender. Vocal range: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano (G3 – D5) Age range: 40s-50s.
Doralee Rhodes: A bubbly and sweet Southern secretary who is often judged unfairly due to her looks and flirtatious demeanor. Vocal range: Mezzo-Soprano (G3 – E5) Age range: 20s-30s.
Judy Bernly: A timid, awkward woman entering the workforce after her husband leaves her. Vocal range: Soprano with belt (Ab3 – F5) Age range: Late 20s-40s.
Franklin Hart Jr: The arrogant, chauvinistic, and lecherous boss who believes women exist only to serve him. He’s humorous in his villainy and completely unaware of his own absurdity. Vocal range: Baritone (C3 – Gb4) Age range: 40s-50s.
Roz Keith: The nosy office snitch and Hart’s sycophantic assistant, secretly infatuated with him. Her obsession provides comic relief. Vocal range: Alto/Mezzo-Soprano (G3 – C5) Age range: 35+.
Joe: A charming and supportive accountant with a romantic interest in Violet. Vocal range: Tenor (B2 – G4) Age range: Late 20s-40s.
Dwayne: Doralee’s loving and supportive husband who encourages her to follow her dreams. Vocal range: Tenor/Baritone Age range: 20s-30s.
Josh Newstead: Violet’s teenage son, good-natured but slightly rebellious. Age range: Teen.
Missy Hart: Hart’s clueless and glamorous wife, devoted to him despite his flaws. Age range: 30s-50s.
Margaret: An office drunk, who provides comedic moments. Age range: 30s-50s.
Ensemble: Office workers, secretaries, and staff members (both men and women). Possible roles include: Candy Striper: A hospital worker - Detective and Policemen: Who investigate the women’s antics - Tinsworthy: The company’s eccentric, understanding CEO who ultimately promotes Violet.
THE 39 STEPS
Directed by: Clayton Phillips
REH: 7/01/25 (on or around)
OPEN: 7/17/25
CLOSE: 7/27/25
SYNOPSIS: The 39 Steps is a fast-paced, comedic thriller based on Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film and John Buchan’s novel. The story follows Richard Hannay, on the run from both the police and a dangerous spy organization known as “The 39 Steps,” Hannay embarks on a frantic chase across England and Scotland to clear his name and uncover the organization’s secrets. Packed with clever dialogue, quick-witted humor, and over 150 characters hilariously portrayed by just four actors, the play blends suspense, romance, and slapstick comedy for a wildly entertaining theatrical experience.
Note: This small cast plays an expansive range of roles, showcasing the performers’ skill and making the play both minimalist and highly dynamic.
SEEKING:
Richard Hannay: The protagonist, a charming and unassuming man thrust into a dangerous adventure. Hannay carries the story’s emotional and comedic weight as he navigates perilous situations with growing confidence and determination.
Annabella Schmidt/Pamela/Margaret: Annabella Schmidt: A mysterious and alluring spy with a thick foreign accent, whose murder sets the plot in motion. Pamela: A strong, independent woman reluctantly swept into Hannay’s predicament, serving as his romantic interest. Margaret: A sweet, innocent Scottish woman stuck in an unhappy marriage who briefly helps Hannay.
Clown 1 & Clown 2: Versatile, over 150 roles, including villains, policemen, innkeepers, train conductors, and more. They provide much of the play’s humor with their rapid costume changes, over-the-top accents, and physical comedy. Their ability to differentiate characters and create chaos is a highlight of the production.
BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
Directed and Choreographed by: Christine O’Grady
Musical Direction: Darren Server
REH: 7/22/25 (on or around)
OPEN: 8/8/25
CLOSE: 8/24/25
SYNOPSIS: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of Carole King’s rise to stardom as one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in music history. Beginning as a teenage songwriter crafting hits with her writing partner and husband, Gerry Goffin, Carole struggles to find her own voice. With the support of her close friends and fellow songwriting duo, Carole eventually steps into the spotlight as a solo artist, creating timeless hits like “Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and “Beautiful.” This heartfelt musical celebrates her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and triumph through a stunning soundtrack that defined a generation.
Special note: This performance will feature a virtual orchestra with tracks being operated by a conductor
SEEKING:
Carole King: A likable, down-to-earth, and immensely talented songwriter who matures from a shy teenager to a confident artist. Conveys vulnerability, strength, and humor. Strong piano skills are a plus. Vocal Range: Mezzo-soprano (G3 – E5, strong belt and mix) Character Ages: 16–30.
Gerry Goffin: Charismatic, passionate, and emotionally complex. Gerry is a gifted lyricist who struggles with mental health issues and fidelity, bringing both charm and tension to his relationship with Carole. Vocal Range: Tenor/Baritone (C3 – G4) Character Ages: 20s–30s.
Cynthia Weil: Sophisticated, quick-witted, and confident. Cynthia is a powerhouse lyricist with a sharp sense of humor and a supportive friendship with Carole. Vocal Range: Mezzo-soprano (F3 – E5, strong belt) Character Ages: 20s–30s.
Barry Mann: Lovable, neurotic, and brilliantly talented composer. Barry is Cynthia’s professional partner and romantic interest, bringing humor and heart to their dynamic. Vocal Range: Tenor (C3 – A4) Character Ages: 20s–30s.
Don Kirshner: The influential and no-nonsense music producer with a fatherly presence. He’s a mentor to Carole, Gerry, Cynthia, and Barry, guiding their careers while maintaining high expectations. Vocal Range: Baritone (A2 – C4) Age: 40s–50s.
Genie Klein: Carole’s practical and loving mother. Strong-willed and protective, she’s skeptical of Gerry’s commitment but deeply supportive of her daughter’s independence. Vocal Range: Mezzo-soprano (B3 – D5) Age: 40s–50s.
Ensemble/Featured Characters: The ensemble plays additional 1960s characters, such as Neil Sedaka, Little Eva, Lou Adler, and other iconic music industry figures, including: The Drifters (4 male vocalists): Smooth, charismatic, and skilled in tight harmonies and choreography. Vocal Range: Tenor/Baritone/Bass (various parts). The Shirelles (4 female vocalists): Glamorous and soulful singers who perform with precision and grace. Vocal Range: Mezzo-soprano/Soprano. Little Eva: Energetic and vibrant, Little Eva brings high-energy movement and vocals to her performance. Vocal Range: Mezzo-soprano. The Righteous Brothers (2 male vocalists): Rich, powerful voices that deliver emotional depth in their songs. Vocal Range: Baritone/Bass.
MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET CHRISTMAS
Directed by: Ryan B. Gibbs
Musical Direction by: Brady Wease
REH: 11/20/25 (on or around)
OPEN: 12/3/25
CLOSE: 12/14/25
Special notes: This production will rehearse at Totem Pole Playhouse, but perform at the Majestic Theatre in Gettysburg, PA. This production will have 3 10:00 AM school matinees in addition to its public performances. This performance will feature fully live music.
SYNOPSIS: A Million Dollar Quartet Christmas is a holiday-themed musical that brings together iconic figures from the early days of rock 'n' roll.
SEEKING:
Jerry Lee Lewis: In his 20s, Jerry Lee is the legendary piano prodigy known for his energetic performances. A superb pianist, able to emulate Lewis's style, and possess strong comic skills.
Carl Perkins: Around 24 years old, Carl is a pioneering rockabilly musician best known for Blue Suede Shoes. Excellent lead guitarist who captures Perkins's musical style.
Johnny Cash: In his mid-20s, Johnny is a singer and guitarist at the dawn of his epic career. Resembles Cash in sound and appearance without being an impersonator and able to play the guitar.
Elvis Presley: At 21, Elvis is the emerging King of Rock 'n' Roll. Captures Presley's early career essence, familiar with his music, and plays the guitar.
Dyanne: In her mid-20s, Dyanne is an aspiring singer and Elvis's girlfriend. She is ahead of her time, assertive, and possesses a wide vocal range, singing solos and backup throughout the show.
Brother Jay: In his mid-20s, Jay is the bass player and brother of Carl Perkins. Proficient in playing the upright bass and provides backup vocals. (Requires live playing of upright bass guitar)
Fluke: In his mid-20s, Fluke is the drummer. Skilled in drumming and able to maintain the rhythm and energy of the rock 'n' roll numbers. (Requires live playing of a drumset)
Sam Phillips: At 33, Sam is the founder of Sun Records and known as the Father of Rock 'n' Roll. He discovered talents like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. Charismatic, a towering figure in American music.
