AUDITION NOTICE — IOLANTHE

Franklin Light Opera

Franklin Light Opera invites performers to audition for a lively, modern reimagining of Gilbert & Sullivan’s Iolanthe. We are seeking an energetic, physical, personality-forward cast. Flexible and inclusive casting. Anyone aged 15 and up is welcome to audition. All experience levels encouraged.

Iolanthe is a whimsical, fast-paced comic operetta by Gilbert & Sullivan, filled with fairies, fantasy, political satire, and delightfully absurd situations. The story follows the young half-fairy, half-mortal Strephon, his forbidden love for Phyllis, and the chaos that erupts when the Fairy Court collides with the House of Lords. Expect clever humor, beautiful melodies, big ensemble moments, and a playful blend of magic and Victorian politics—all presented with a modern, energetic twist.

Director Elizabeth Steele 

Musical Director  Makai Keur

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

Prepare:

• 32 bars of a song in any style that shows personality and vocal ability.

• You may bring a backing track on a phone or device (aux/Bluetooth available), or an accompanist will be provided if you bring sheet music.

Cold Reads:

• Sides will be provided for those auditioning for principal roles.

What to Bring:

• A resume and headshot, if you have them.

• Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time to check in.

CHARACTERS & TRADITIONAL VOCAL RANGES

(Casting will be flexible; traditional ranges are listed for reference.)

Fairies

• Phyllis – Soprano (A3–A5)

• Iolanthe – Mezzo-Soprano (C4–F#5)

• Fairy Queen – Alto (D3–D#5)

• Celia – Soprano (B3–G5)

• Leila – Mezzo-Soprano (C4–E5)

• Fleta – Spoken role

• Ensemble Fairies – All voice types

Mortals & Peers

• Strephon – Baritone (G2–G4)

• Lord Chancellor – Baritone (G2–E4)

• Lord Tolloller – Tenor (D3–A4)

• Lord Mountararat – Baritone (A2–G#4)

• Private Willis – Bass (D#2–D4)

• Ensemble Peers – All voice types

Call Back (if needed) will be held January 16. 

REHEARSAL & PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

Rehearsals will be held at Church of the Resurrection on the following weekly schedule starting January 18. 

• Sundays: Afternoon rehearsals

• Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays: Evening rehearsals

• Not everyone will be called to all rehearsals

• Be prepared to provide a list of possible conflicts at your audition or submit with electronic submission

Tech Week will take place March 16–19, 2026 at the Williamson County Performing Arts Center.

Performances will run March 20–22, 2026 at the Williamson County Performing Arts Center.

In person auditions are preferred, but if you cannot attend we will accept electrionic submissions until January 15 at midnight. 

Please sent to : info@franklinlightopera.org