All the world is a stage

Whether you enter the Auditorium with years of experience or are setting foot on the stage for the very first time, John Carroll’s thriving Theatre Arts Program is for students with a passion for performing.

Many well-prepared John Carroll students go on to study musical theatre, vocal performance, acting and film at prestigious colleges and universities including University of the Arts in Philadelphia, NYU – Tisch, Pace University, Boston Conservatory at Berklee, and pursue professional opportunities with Broadway productions and regional theatre companies.

Department Chair
Julie Parrish
Director of Performing Arts & Music Department Chair

"Catch Me If You Can"

November 15 at 7:00 p.m.; November 16 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.; November 17 at 2:00 p.m.

Based on the hit film and the incredible true story, "Catch Me If You Can" is the high-flying musical comedy about chasing your dreams and not getting caught. Seeking fame and fortune, precocious teenager, Frank Abagnale, Jr., runs away from home to begin an unforgettable adventure. With nothing more than his boyish charm, a big imagination and millions of dollars in forged checks, Frank successfully poses as a pilot, a doctor and a lawyer – living the high life and winning the girl of his dreams. When Frank's lies catch the attention of FBI agent, Carl Hanratty, though, Carl pursues Frank across the country to make him pay for his crimes.

Audition Information
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Come to auditions in clothing and shoes suitable for moving comfortably. You may prepare an audition song or you may sing the song taught at the audition. If singing a prepared audition piece, please bring sheet music or an accompaniment track with you. Please bring a list of known conflicts to include on your audition form – no show conflicts are accepted! Thursday, September 5, 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Freshmen & Sophomores; Friday, September 6, 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Juniors & Seniors; Friday, September 6, 6:30-8:00 p.m.: Callbacks, if needed

"Sister Act"

March 21 at 7:00 p.m.; March 22 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.; March 23 at 2:00 p.m.

"Sister Act" is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won't be a found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.

Audition Information
expand_more

Come to auditions in clothing and shoes suitable for moving comfortably. You may prepare an audition song or you may sing the song taught at the audition. If singing a prepared audition piece, please bring sheet music or an accompaniment track with you. Please bring a list of known conflicts to include on your audition form – no show conflicts are accepted! Thursday, January 9, 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Freshmen & Sophomores; Friday, January 10, 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Juniors & Seniors; Friday, January 10, 6:30-8:00 p.m.: Callbacks, if needed

Course Offerings

Interest Survey

Prospective John Carroll thespians should complete the interest form below. After you submit, you will receive more tailored information about Theater at The John Carroll School.

Please enter your grade for the 2024–2025 school year.
Please list all current school or community theatre activities that you are involved in.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Co-Curricular Experiences

The John Carroll School Theatre Department produces two main stage musicals every year (fall and spring). We nurture and sustain a high quality Performing Arts Department as students develop a passion that will stimulate them to achieve their full potential in theatre arts. All students, experienced and inexperienced, are encouraged to participate. Students have the opportunity to audition for acting, singing and dancing roles, while band and orchestra students may audition to participate in the pit orchestra. For students interested in the technical aspects of theatre, there are opportunities to participate in tech crew (light and/or sound), set crew, costuming, props and stage management positions.

Opportunities to perform for all ages

In addition to the curricular dance offerings, John Carroll offers extracurricular theatre for ages five through adult through the on-campus Academy of Performing Arts and Dance.

Musical Theatre Academy

Under the direction of Julie Parrish, Director of Performing Arts at The John Carroll School, the Musical Theatre Academy continues to meet the need in our community for year-round instruction in theatre arts. There is something for thespians of all ages and interest levels!