Brooke Hills Playhouse: Youth Audition Notice

The Emperor’s New Clothes

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saturday, june 6th 10:00 am at the playhouse

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Adapted by Timothy Mason Director

Directed by Niccole Welch

Produced by Liv Welch

Ages: Open to young performers ages 7–18

Performance Dates: July 31st-August 2nd and August 7th-9th, 2026

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Casting Note for Parents & Performers:

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Timothy Mason’s delightful adaptation is a high-energy, fast-paced comedy that is perfect for young actors! We are looking for an energetic, supportive, and playful cast. This show relies heavily on big facial expressions, physical humor, and great comedic timing. No theater experience is necessary to audition—all roles are wide open!

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We ask that parents assist filling out the audition form at auditions in order to confirm appropriate contact information and any rehearsal conflicts. 

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Unable to attend the June 6th Audition? Please reach out to director Niccole Welch at niccole@brookehillsplayhouse.org no later than June 1st.

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Character Breakdown

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The Emperor (Ewefor)

• Suggested Age: 14–18

• Character Vibe: Vain, silly, and completely obsessed with clothes, fashion, and his own reflection. He isn't a bad guy, just hilariously gullible and blinded by his own vanity.

• Acting Requirements: Needs great comedic timing and a willingness to be completely goofy on stage. The actor must be confident and comfortable executing the famous "big reveal" parade at the end of the show (wearing a funny, over-the-top, entirely family-friendly undergarment/pajama costume over their base layer).

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The Swindlers (Flo & Roscoe)

• Suggested Age: 12–18 (Two Roles)

• Character Vibe: The ultimate dynamic duo of tricky, quick-witted pranksters. Flo and Roscoe outsmart the entire royal court using charm and imaginary thread. Think of them like a fun cartoon duo.

• Acting Requirements: These roles need actors who can speak clearly, think fast on their feet, and work wonderfully as a team.

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The Minister of State

• Suggested Age: 11–18

• Character Vibe: The top advisor to the Emperor. They are terrified of looking silly or losing their job, so they are the very first person to pretend they can "see" the invisible cloth, starting a giant chain reaction of fibbing.

• Acting Requirements: Great for a character actor who is excellent at acting nervous, frantic, and funny.

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Mistress of the Wardrobe

• Suggested Age: 11–18

• Character Vibe: The stressed-out official in charge of organizing the Emperor's massive closet. She is deeply dramatic about fashion and completely panics when the Swindlers show up.

• Acting Requirements: High energy, big facial expressions, and great physical comedy.

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Minister of War

• Suggested Age: 11–18

• Character Vibe: A blustering, hilariously tough leader who tries to act brave and strong, even though they are just as scared and confused as the rest of the palace court.

• Acting Requirements: Needs a strong, booming stage voice and fun, exaggerated "tough guy" posture.

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The Boy

• Suggested Age: 7–11

• Character Vibe: Honest, innocent, and practical. While all the grown-ups are trapped in their own lies and fear of looking foolish, the Boy is the only one with the courage to point out the simple, unvarnished truth.

• Acting Requirements: Needs a clear, confident speaking voice and a grounded, sincere stage presence to deliver the most famous line of the play.

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Ensemble (Guards, Dancers, and Townspeople)

• Suggested Age: 7–18 (A great mix of all ages!)

• Character Vibe: The lifeblood of our show! This vibrant group populates the kingdom, reacting to the craziness of the court, participating in fun stage movement, and creating the crowd energy.

• Acting Requirements: Perfect for actors of all experience levels who want to build characters, showcase expressive acting, and shine on stage.

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What to Expect at Auditions:

• Acting: We will hand out short, easy scenes (sides) from the script at auditions. You will get to read them in small groups. Just bring your energy and don't be afraid to make big choices