Auditions

WICHITA GRAND OPERA – AUDITION NOTICE

1776
Century II - Mary Jane Teall Theater, the productions will be part of the Riverfest 2026 festivities.
Music & Lyrics by Sherman Edwards 

About the Show
1776 brings to life the dramatic, passionate, and often humorous debates of the Continental Congress as America’s founders struggle to unite the colonies and sign the Declaration of Independence. Centered on John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and their fellow delegates, the musical captures the personal conflicts, political compromises, and courageous decisions that shaped the birth of a nation. With memorable songs, compelling characters, and powerful storytelling, 1776 remains one of Broadway’s most celebrated historical musicals.

Performance Dates:

• Friday, May 29, 2026 | 7:00pm
• Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 7:00 PM
• Sunday, May 31, 2026 | 3:00 PM
  Rehearsals beginMay 3rd
  

ROLES AVAILABLE

All roles are available.

John Adams (Male, Tenor/Baritone | C3–F#4)
Delegate from Massachusetts. Passionate, outspoken, and determined; tirelessly advocates for independence.

Stephen Hopkins (Male, Baritone | C3–Eb4)
Delegate from Rhode Island. Elder statesman with playful humor and a fondness for drink.

Roger Sherman (Male, Baritone | C3–Bb4)
Delegate from Connecticut. Energetic, practical, and straightforward.

Robert Livingston (Male, Baritone | Bb2–F4)
Delegate from New York. Thoughtful, gracious, and newly a father.

Benjamin Franklin (Male, Baritone | Ab2–Eb4)
Delegate from Pennsylvania. Wise, witty, diplomatic, and charming.

John Dickinson (Male, Baritone | A2–E4)
Delegate from Pennsylvania. Elegant, sharp-tongued opponent of independence.

Col. Thomas McKean (Male, Baritone | C3–Eb4)
Delegate from Delaware. Strong-willed, charismatic, commanding presence.

Richard Henry Lee (Male, Tenor | C3–G4)
Delegate from Virginia. Aristocratic, flamboyant, and theatrical.

Thomas Jefferson (Male, Tenor | C3–G4)
Delegate from Virginia. Gentle, intellectual author of the Declaration.

Edward Rutledge (Male, Tenor | C3–A4)
Delegate from South Carolina. Charismatic, intense, and politically driven.

Abigail Adams (Female, Soprano | Db4–F5)
John Adams’s intelligent, witty, and devoted wife.

Martha Jefferson (Female, Soprano | Bb3–D5)
Thomas Jefferson’s warm, lively, and affectionate wife.

Courier (Male, Baritone | C3–Db4)
Messenger from General Washington’s army; earnest and youthful.

Other roles also available

WHAT TO PREPARE

• A musical theatre song or excerpt (a pianist will be provided).
• A performance resume
• Headshot (if available)
• Auditioners may be asked to read provided scenes during their auditions

TO AUDITION

Choose a time on the calendar below for March 14 or 21. Please add your name, email, voice type, and any roles you wish to be considered for.

Audition Dates
Saturday, March 14, 2026
Saturday, March 21, 2026
Callbacks:  Sunday, March 22, 2026
Location

Palen Music Center
2300 E. Lincoln St
Wichita, KS 67211