08/20/2026
Directors Steve Dietrich and Jenny Weber will be holding auditions for the Troy Civic Theatre’s holiday musical, Away in the Basement, A Church Basement Ladies Christmas on Monday and Tuesday, August 31st and September 1st, from 7-9 pm at The Barn in the Park.
1959: It’s the day of the annual Sunday School Christmas program and the lovable Church Basement Ladies in Minnesota have arrived early to finish up treat bags and make sure costumes and props are ready to go. When things start to go haywire, the charming ladies from the kitchen step in to save the day. This musical comedy is full of good tidings, great humor, and joy.
Roles:
The Pastor: Middle aged male, a widower of 2 years that has begun to show interest in the new parish worker. He is a nice man, living a life of service and humility. Baritone B3 – E4
Karin: In her late 30’s – early 40’s. She is Beverly’s mother, the most fashionable of the ladies and the best cook. Alto A4 – C5
Beverly: Blonde and 15, who can hardly wait to be an adult. She has a great deal of affection for the women in the basement, but is embarrassed by everything her mother says and does. Mezzo Soprano – A4 – D5
Mavis: An able-bodied farm wife of middle age. Very good natured and quick with a joke. She believes hard work is good for the soul. Alto A4 – C5
Vivian: She is the oldest CBL and a widow of many years. She is the matriarch of the kitchen and holds tightly to tradition. Soprano A4 – G5
Auditions will consist of :
1. Individual vocal time – range determination and singing of the prepared excerpt for preferred role (link below)
2. Group cold reading from script
3. Group vocals of group excerpt- prepare preferred part (link below)
We are looking for strong voices with the ability to confidently carry their own part.
Production dates are Dec. 4-6 and Dec. 11-13. Please bring a list of all known conflicts between Sept 8th and Dec 13th. The show will rehearse 3 days a week with the concentration on music in the early days.
Away in The Basement, A Church Basement Ladies Christmas was written by Greta Grosch, with music and lyrics by Drew Jansen. The show is produced by special arrangement with Troupe America, Inc.
Link to Dropbox – you’ll find scores, played parts, and cast recordings of excerpts
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/zv7sclagiwqi9y0zqhqdz/ABBSj6JxqZXmSUJh6L2LkZs?rlkey=hrde5tmgg2vrd2zdzjqtwrbut&st=ws7yh
