Open Audition
MATILDA JR. – OPEN CASTING CALL
Upstage Theatre Productions is thrilled to announce open auditions for our youth production:
Roald Dahl’s Matilda Jr.
Auditions: February 2026
Technical & Dress Rehearsals: 24th, 25th & 26th June 2026
Performances: 27th & 28th June 2026
This is an exciting opportunity for young performers to be part of a brand-new theatre company, working to a high professional standard in a supportive and inspiring environment.
🌟 WHO CAN AUDITION?
For this production, We welcome performers who:
Are aged 8–16 years
Love singing, dancing, acting — or all three
Want to grow in confidence and performance skills
Are enthusiastic, committed, and ready to have fun bringing a show to life
✨ We are looking for potential, personality, and passion. If you would like to be part of this incredible production, then sign up to audition.
🎤 ABOUT THE AUDITIONS
FREE to audition
Open casting call — everyone is welcome
Auditions will be friendly, encouraging, and professionally run
Full audition details (songs, dance, call timings) will be sent after sign-up
Auditions will be led by Sassy Hayes, alongside a team of experienced theatre professionals.
📩 HOW TO SIGN UP
To register for auditions, please complete the sign-up form at:
Once registered, you will receive:
✔ Audition date, time & venue
✔ What to prepare
✔ Important parent/guardian information
Spaces are limited, so early sign-up is encouraged.
Audition form will close Sunday 8th February 2026 10am.
✨ WHY UPSTAGE?
At Upstage Theatre Productions, we believe young performers deserve:
Professional-quality productions
Supportive, inclusive rehearsal spaces
Opportunities to truly shine on stage
This is more than a show — it’s the start of something special.
👨👩👧👦 PARENT INFORMATION & FAQ
Who is Upstage Theatre Productions?
Upstage Theatre Productions is a theatre company dedicated to producing high-quality musical theatre while nurturing creativity, confidence, and performance skills in young people. We are show focussed and do not run classes, so all our sessions are either rehearsals or workshops for the show that we are producing.
Who leads the production?
The production is directed by Sassy Hayes, alongside Chris Todd, Choreographer and Louise Helyer , Musical Director.
Does my child need previous experience?
No. Auditions are open to all young people aged 8–16, regardless of experience. We are looking for enthusiasm, potential, and commitment.
Is there a cost to audition?
No — auditions are completely FREE.
Are there any participation fees if my child is cast?
Production fees will be £10 subs per week. (Only on the week’s the cast are called to rehearsal including show week). Subs can be paid weekly, monthly or Per Show in one sum. Preferred payment method is via BACS. There will be a joining fee of £20 - This will be to cover administration charges, your script and your Upstage Theatre Productions T-Shirt.
The Production fees cover the running costs, hire of Production team and cover the costs of rehearsals.
We believe that the arts should be accessible to all, and that financial circumstances should not be a barrier to participation. To support this commitment, we offer a limited number of bursaries each production to individuals who demonstrate financial need and meet our eligibility criteria. These bursaries are designed to help ensure that as many people as possible can benefit from our programmes. If you would like a bursary application form please email info@upstagetheatre.co.uk
What is the rehearsal commitment?
Rehearsals will take place weekly on a Friday or Sunday in Whiteley (Full details will be confirmed when cast), with additional sessions closer to performance week. A full schedule including times will be provided once casting is complete. Rehearsals will start beginning of March 2026.
Where will rehearsals and performances take place?
All rehearsals will take place in Whiteley and we will be performing at Petersfield Festival Hall in June.
How do you ensure safeguarding?
Safeguarding is a priority at Upstage Theatre Productions. All staff are appropriately trained, DBS checked and clear safeguarding policies are in place to ensure a safe and supportive environment. At each rehearsal and performance, a designated chaperone will be responsible for your child and their safety.
🎤 WHAT TO EXPECT AT AUDITIONS
We aim to make auditions a positive, encouraging, and enjoyable experience for every young performer.
On the Day
Auditions will be held in small groups and led by friendly, experienced professionals. Performers will be guided throughout and supported at every stage.
The Audition Will Include:
🎶 Singing
A short song from the show (This will be provided prior to your audition)
Lyrics and backing tracks will be provided in advance
💃 Movement / Dance
A short routine taught on the day will be performed back to the production team in small groups
We will group performers based on ability as stated in their audition form.
🎭 Acting
Simple acting exercises or short scenes (This will be provided prior to your audition)
This allows us to see personality and storytelling skills
What Are We Looking For?
Confidence (or willingness to try!)
Enthusiasm and commitment to performing
Ability to work well in a group
A love of musical theatre
What Should They Wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for movement
Trainers or dance shoes
Please bring water
After the Audition
Casting decisions will be communicated by email within the stated timeframe. Every performer will be thanked for auditioning — we know how much courage it takes to step into the room.