The Dayton Playhouse is holding auditions for the ultimate feel-good family classic, ANNIE.
We aren’t just building a cast; we’re building a family. We believe the stage belongs to everyone and that representation truly matters. Because of that, our doors and hearts are wide open. We warmly encourage actors of all races, ethnicities, sizes, identities, and abilities to come out and share their talents with us. If you’ve been waiting for your sign to get on stage—this is it!
Your Creative Team – You’ll be in great hands with our fantastic, supportive production crew:
- Director: Dawn Roth Smith
- Assistant Director: Jennifer Strader
- Music Director: Sherri Sutter
- Choreographer: Amber Todd
- Stage Manager: Dionne Meyers
ANNIE is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
We can’t wait to meet you, cheer you on, and see what you bring to the audition room. See you there!
Here is everything you need to know about auditions, rehearsals, and show dates.
Audition & Callback Dates
No need to stress—just show up ready to have fun!
- Kids Auditions (Ages 6–17): Monday, July 20 at 7:00 PM
- Adult Auditions: Tuesday, July 21 at 7:00 PM
Callbacks (If needed): Wednesday, July 22 at 7:00 PM
Rehearsal Schedule
We respect your time and want to make sure everyone can balance life and theater!
First Rehearsal: Monday, July 27
Weekly Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Important Note: Tech Week runs from September 13 – September 17, 2026. Because this is when we add lights, sound, and costumes, attendance during this week is mandatory.
Performance Dates
Get ready to show Dayton what you’ve got! The show runs for three weekends:
Opening Night: Friday, September 18, 2026
Closing Night: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Weekly Schedule: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performances
What to Prepare
- Vocal: Please prepare 16–32 bars of a musical theatre song in the style of the show (traditional musical theatre). Bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided. Please, no a cappella singing or recorded tracks.
- Dance/Movement: Come prepared for a brief movement/dance combination. Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear (jazz shoes, sneakers, or character shoes).
- Acting: Actors may be asked to read sides from the script, which will be provided at the audition.
Character Breakdown
All roles are open to actors of any background, ethnicity, or body type. Ages listed indicate the character’s age/appearance on stage, not necessarily the actor’s physical age.
The Orphans
- Annie (Age 10-12): Streetwise, tough, independent, but full of hope and heart. A strong belt singer.
- The Orphans (Ages 6-14): Molly, Pepper, Duffy, July, Tessie, Kate, and others. gritty, energetic actors with strong personalities who are excellent singers and movers. Any acrobatic or tumbling abilities are also highly welcome.
The Adults
- Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks (Age 40-60): A powerful, billionaire businessman who seems gruff on the outside but reveals a warm, deeply caring heart. Vocal range: Baritone.
- Miss Hannigan (Age 35-55): The disillusioned, comedic, and funny matron of the orphanage. Excellent comedic timing and a strong character belt.
- Grace Farrell (Age 25-45): Warbucks’ loyal, classy, intelligent, and highly capable secretary. She is warm and maternal toward Annie. Vocal range: Soprano.
- Rooster Hannigan (Age 25-45): Miss Hannigan’s flashy, slick, untrustworthy brother. A smooth talker and a great dancer. Vocal range: Tenor.
- Lily St. Regis (Age 20-40): Rooster’s airheaded, gold-digging girlfriend. Great comedic timing and a strong character voice. Vocal range: Soprano/with mix belt.
Ensemble Roles - The Adult Ensemble (Ages 16+): A versatile group playing multiple roles including Oliver Warbucks’ Staff (Drake, Mrs. Pugh, Cecille, Annette), Hooverville Residents, NYC Citizens, Star to Be, FDR, Cabinet Members, and Radio Personalities (Bert Healy, Boylan Sisters). Looking for strong singers, actors, and dancers.
A Note on Accessibility: The Dayton Playhouse is dedicated to providing an accessible audition environment. If you require any specific accommodations to participate fully in the audition process, please reach out to us ahead of time.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 