🎭 Cumberland County Playhouse Casts Disney's Newsies Jr. – Auditions Open for Young Performers

Cumberland County Playhouse is opening the stage to young performers across the region for a high-energy production of Disney’s Newsies Jr., a story about courage, friendship, and the power of youth voices. Auditions are coming this December, and no previous theater experience is required.

🎬 What You Need to Know About Auditions

Auditions take place Sunday, December 13, 2026, from 5:30 to 10:00 PM at the Cumberland County Playhouse Main Rehearsal Hall. The casting call welcomes all young performers ages 8 to 18. ✨ All lead, supporting, and ensemble roles are available, and some roles may be double-cast, meaning more opportunities for young actors to participate.

To schedule your audition appointment, contact DeAnna Helgeson at 931-484-5000, extension 110, or email dhelgeson@ccplayhouse.com. Auditions are by appointment only.

📋 What to Prepare

Auditioners should bring:

• 16 bars of an upbeat song 🎵
• A 30-second to 1-minute monologue
• Sheet music in the correct key or a cued accompaniment recording

No previous Playhouse experience is necessary-this is an open invitation for any young performer ready to step into the spotlight. 🌟

🗓️ Callbacks and Production Timeline

Callbacks are scheduled for Thursday, December 17, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 PM by invitation only. Rehearsals run from January 12 through February 12, 2027, with performances scheduled from February 12 through March 21, 2027. The production will feature approximately 2 to 3 performances per week.

🎪 About the Show

Disney’s Newsies Jr. tells the inspiring story of young newspaper sellers in turn-of-the-century New York City who stand together to fight for what’s right. The musical features unforgettable songs including “Seize the Day,” “Carrying the Banner,” and “Santa Fe”-celebrating friendship, courage, and the power of young voices. 💪 The production is rated G and is a youth and teen volunteer production.

👥 Creative Team

The production is led by Director DeAnna Helgeson, Musical Director Heather McCall, and Stage Manager Josh Helgeson. 🎨