[Starlitsinger88]

I'm thinking up auditioning for the Mikado at a well thought of community theater semi-pro group. I've done the show before (chorus) for a local community theater and I thought it would be really fun to do again, especially if I was getting paid

However, I am only 17 (18 in a couple months). I have a mature voice for my age and have no problem singing the solos for any of the three little maids. In the past I haven't auditioned for principals in community theater because I figure I'm not old enough. However, being as I'm almost 18, I wonder if I'm limiting myself. But, when again I'm not even sure if I could get a chorus role in the production because the company is very good and semi-professional, which I've never done before.

So, should I audition for a principal? Or should I stick to the chorus? I guess I'm just worried that if I audition for a principal they'll laugh at me for being so young. I'm obviously paranoid. What do you all think?

[LisaKitty]

Why not go for both? The worst that can happen is you don't get cast, and then you are no worse off than if you never tried. Besides, you have no idea what the casting directors are looking for, and it very well might be you!

One thing to keep in mind however, often professional (and even semi-pro) companies choose not to cast actors under 18 due to contract issues. That's still no reason not to audition, but know that if you aren't cast, it is not necessarily because you aren't good enough, but that they didn't want to deal with the hassle of a separate (and usually much more strict) contract for youth performers.

[Elphaba22]

They won't laugh at you, go for both.
When I was a freshman in high school, we were doing an opera, and I auditioned for the lead role, and although I didn't get it, I did get a supporting role in the opera, and had a solo. Other freshman were scared to audition, so it ended up being me and all seniors in the main roles
So go for it

[carrot cait]

I don't see why you couldn't go for it. The only problem you'd have getting the role is that if you did get a lead, the other 2 leads would have to be around your age so they wouldn't look ridiculously older. And even if you do end up in the chorus, it's a wicked fun show. I had an amazing time being in the ensemble.

[MaryMag]

Go for it. Aim high and if you fall short, you'll still land higher than if you'd aimed low. Know what I mean?

I know plenty of 14 year olds who got their asses out there and auditioned for professional theaters despite their age. And know what? They ended up working there! There's a 14 year old who is routinely in the heavy dancing chorus at the local eq musical theater house.

You'll never get anything if you don't try. I always audition for stuff that's out of my league and am often surprised by the results. Plus it has forced me to step up my game and become more skilled overall.

[shakalakababy]

Yeah, i agree with what everyone's said.

I've not auditioned for theaters in the past because i thought i didn't stand a chance and i've always really regretted it. Honestly if you're really interested in acting you should audition for anything and everything, just to get the experience if nothing else.