PRINCIPAL ENSEMBLE AUDITION NOTICE
Candide: an opera in English by Leonard Bernstein (composer) and John Caird (librettist)
Francesca Zambello, Director; Eric Sean Fogel, Associate Director and Choreographer

CONTRACT DATES:

• Costume fittings: early September
• Staging rehearsals: begin October 19, 2026
• Performances: November 18 (Final Dress), November 21, 29m, December 2, 5, 10, 13m, 2026

CASTING:  12 Principal Ensemble Performers (Male-Presenting and Female-Presenting)

Six Classical Singers who Act/Move Well:
Charismatic Soloists to portray various roles and ensemble. Classical singers with a musical theatre background or experience preferred. You may be asked to move and read sides at the call-back.

Please bring: Prepare two full classical musical theatre songs, showing off range and quality. Bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided. No a cappella auditions. Bring 2 copies of a picture and resume stapled together.

Six Dancers who Sing:
Charismatic dancer/singers with strong acting ability to portray various roles and ensemble. Seeking versatile dancers with contemporary dance training. Specifically interested in dancers who sing. You may be asked to sing and read sides at the call-back.

Please bring: For the dance call please bring heels or character shoes. Prepare one full classical musical theatre song, showing off range and quality. Bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided. No a cappella auditions. Bring 2 copies of a picture and resume stapled together.

CONTRACT:
Current 2025-26 AGMA Local Weekly Contract Rates (subject to change, as collective bargaining negotiations are in progress): / $1,587.24 per week and $338.84 per performance (including Final Dress). Must have full time availability. Any performer who is not already a member of the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) will be required to join if accepting an offer of employment.

AUDITION (by invitation only – applicants will be assigned appointments):

• April 12 3-6pm Singing Ensemble Vocal Auditions
• April 13 10am-1pm Singing Ensemble Vocal Auditions
• 2pm Dancing Ensemble Dance Auditions
• 4:30pm Dancing Ensemble Call-back Vocal Auditions
• April 14 10am Singing Ensemble Call-back Movement Auditions
• 12pm Singing and Dancing Ensemble Final Call-back

Location: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (Downtown Los Angeles). Parking: Free. Details will be emailed to invited auditionees. You will be asked to arrive 15-30 minutes before your audition time for check-in.

HOW TO APPLY:
Email a copy of your most recent picture and resume to CANDIDEauditions@laopera.org. Deadline:   Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Include subject line: CANDIDE – Singer – Your name or CANDIDE – Dancer – Your name

Ensemble performers must be 18 years or older and local to Southern California, as LA Opera is not able to offer housing or per diem. Any offer of employment is contingent upon the ability to provide documentation of the right to work in the United States.