Come from away auditions at Grandstreet Theatre

Grandstreet Theatre is casting three actors for their upcoming production of the hit musical, Come From Away. Rehearsals will begin in February of 2027, with performances in April and May. No performance experience is required to audition. All interested candidates should read on to learn more about the audition process.

We are casting:

• One Black male
• One Black female
• One male of Middle Eastern descent

Come From Away production details

Book, Music, and Lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein

Directed by Retta Leaphart

Performance dates: April 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, May 1, 2

Approximate rehearsal dates: February 22, 2027 – April 15, 2027 (Monday through Thursday evenings)

Tech week: April 11 – 15

Synopsis

Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family. The show’s message resonates across all audiences as an uplifting reminder of humanity’s ability to come together, no matter what the circumstances.

Seeking the following roles

• All roles in Come From Away are adult roles and will be cast with actors 18 years old and up.
• Below is a breakdown and description of the three roles being cast at this time. An age range is also specified, although there is some flexibility in regard to age.
• All actors in Come From Away will play multiple roles.

HANNAH (40s–60s, Black female) The mother of a firefighter in Manhattan, Hannah waits for news about her son and is comforted by Beulah.

KEVIN J. (30s–50s, Middle Eastern male) Kevin T’s boyfriend and secretary. Sarcastic and unhappy, he wants to leave as soon as possible. Also plays ALI, an Egyptian man traveling to America who experiences isolation and Islamophobia.

BOB (20s–50s, Black male) A hardened New Yorker, Bob is suspicious of where he’s landed, fearing that it’s World War 3, that someone is going to shoot him and steal his wallet – but instead, he ends up losing his New York jadedness.

Content warning

Come From Away includes frequent references to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and therefore addresses themes of grief and loss. Additionally, the show deals with themes of racism and Islamophobia.

The rehearsal process

• At Grandstreet Theatre, the company works to respect everyone’s time and create rehearsal schedules accordingly.
• If cast, you will only be called to rehearsal when you are needed. You may not be called to every rehearsal.
• Rehearsals are typically scheduled on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. The company works to start and stop rehearsals at the scheduled times. Weekends are generally kept clear to allow for down time and the possibility for weekend travel, although occasional Sunday rehearsals may be added when necessary.
• Rehearsal schedules are created from the schedules and conflicts of those involved. Therefore, only an approximate typical rehearsal schedule can be provided until a full cast is in place.

Audition information

• All auditions must take place before December 1, 2026. To schedule your audition, please email jeff@grandstreettheatre.com. The theatre will work with you to set up a day and time that works for you.
• Everyone in the audition room wants you to succeed. If you have questions, please reach out. Guidance through the audition process is available by emailing jeff@grandstreettheatre.com.
• You should be prepared to present one song of your choosing at your audition. Your song should be less than a minute long, so there is no need to sing an entire song. Your song can be from a musical, but it does not have to be. Sing a song you love to sing. You will be singing a cappella at your audition (without accompaniment).
• With your permission, a photo may be taken at your audition, and your audition may be filmed. Photos and videos will only be viewed by the directors casting the productions and will be deleted once the casting process is complete.

Get in on the act

• No experience is necessary. Almost every Grandstreet show has at least one actor making a GST debut. If you have never been in a show before, the company will teach you everything you need to know.
• Being in a show at Grandstreet is a way to make new friends, serve your community and make theatre.
• Grandstreet works to ensure that every production is organized, professional, challenging, rewarding and fun.
• Prospective performers are encouraged to take a deep breath and reach out to schedule an audition.

Grandstreet Theatre is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. As such, the company encourages performers of all races and ethnicities, gender identities, sexualities and abilities to audition.