Before construction begins on the stage of Theatre in the Grove, before the choreography and music rehearsals, before the decoration and costume design launches into action, the doors open, and the local talent steps into the light.

The audition process begins.

Sometimes there’s a competition for a role; other times, directors must get creative to fill a spot. On special occasions, the audition process can even become a family affair.

“We had a couple of moms who brought their daughters to audition,” said Wendy Bax, director for Scrooge! The Musical. “Now, they get to share the show experience with their daughters,” an experience that Bax also had years ago with her own children.

When it comes to casting, “I love getting to give people an opportunity to get on the stage and use their gifts,” Bax said. Theatre provides a stage for people of all backgrounds and abilities to find their voice, no matter their level of experience.

What makes the cast of Scrooge: The Musical special? First, “several of our cast members have years of experience on stage, while others are just getting their first taste of working in a live theatre,” Bax said, and “each person in the cast is there for a reason.”

Beyond that, on a personal note, Bax says that “Theatre in the Grove casts are some of the best people I know.” For her, “Theatre is my happy place, and I am so happy to invite others to share.”

Now that the cast is assembled, rehearsals have begun. While we’re only a few weeks into the process, Bax has already noted the professionalism, talent, and “sense of community” in the cast members. Bax can’t wait to bring her favorite Christmas musical to our local audience and “usher them into the wonder of the holidays.”

Be sure to check out our social media over the next month as we highlight some of the incredible individuals working to bring these beloved characters to life.

To see our cast bring Scrooge: The Musical to life, purchase your tickets here. Show performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday for three weekends in December, beginning Friday, December 1st. Sunday matinee performances will be held at 2:30 p.m., beginning Sunday, December 3rd, with the final performance on Sunday, December 17th.

Performances will be held at the historical Theatre in the Grove, located at 2028 Pacific Ave, Forest Grove. Alcohol and concession sales will be available in the lobby.

We look forward to sharing the holiday magic with you there!