We are thrilled that you are taping for consideration for the J2 Spotlight 2026 Season! Please follow the full instructions below for what/how to tape. If you have any questions, reach out to us at spotlightnycauditions@gmail.com.
FOR ALL SHOWS, PLEASE SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING:
-SLATE: Name, Height and Location
-SONG CUT of your own in the style of the show (16-32 bars is fine!)
-FULL MATERIAL for your requested roles - accessible via the links below (MP3s included for all song cuts)
-DANCE/MOVEMENT REEL OR CLIP, if you have one to share.
MILK & HONEY
RUTH (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PHIL (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
MRS. WEISS (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
*If you were invite to tape for consideration for MRS. SADIE GLICK or MRS. RACHEL FROMKIN, you should prepare the material for MRS. WEISS. You will be considered for all Widows!
BARBARA (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
DAVID (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
ADI (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
ZIPPORAH (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
ENSEMBLE (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS DANCE COMBINATION) - Coming Soon!
-There is no show specific material to prepare for Ensemble - please submit a Golden Age Cut of your choice with a dance or movement reel and the dance combination linked above.
CARNIVAL
LILI (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PAUL (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
JACQUOT (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
MARCO THE MAGNIFICENT (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
ROSALIE (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
SCHLEGEL (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
GROBERT
-There is no show specific material to prepare for Grobert - please submit a rousing uptempo Golden Age Cut of your choice and include a movement reel, if you have one.
PUPPETEERS/ENSEMBLE (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
*Please also include a puppet reel or clip that demonstrates your skillset and let us know in your slate what kind of puppetry experience you have.
ENSEMBLE DANCERS/ CIRCUS SKILLS
-There is no show specific material to prepare for Ensemble - please submit a rousing uptempo Golden Age Cut of your choice with a dance or movement reel.
*Circus skills are a plus for these tracks! If you have circus skills (acro, balance tricks, juggling, magic, plate spinning, stilt walking, tumbling, contortion) please let us know in your slate and include a reel or clip of your skill. Please note: we will not be able to rig the theatre for any aerial skills, sadly.
THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD
CHAIRMAN/MAYOR (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
CONOVER/HELENA LANDLESS (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
GRINSTEAD/ NEVILLE LANDLESS (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
MONCRIEFFE/ REV. CRISPARKLE (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
NICK CRICKER JR./ DEPUTY (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
NICK CRICKER SR./ DURDLES (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
NUTTING/ EDWIN DROOD (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PAGET/ JASPER JOHN (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PEREGRIN/ ROSA BUD (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PHILLIP BAX/ BAZZARD (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
PRYSOCK/ PRINCESS PUFFER (CLICK HERE TO ACCESS MATERIAL)
J2 SPOTLIGHT 2026 SEASON BREAKDOWN
The J2 Spotlight Musical Theater Company presents professional revivals of worthy Broadway musicals; in doing so it provides an opportunity for patrons to re-visit these shows and, in some cases, experience them for the first time. The Company chooses shows that it deems deserving of continued exposure. The company, as part of its casting, will introduce audiences to emerging artists within the New York theatrical community.
J2 SPOTLIGHT is committed to diversity in casting and encourages performers of all genders, gender presentations, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds to submit for these roles. When a gender is included in a character description, it refers only to the gender identity and/or presentation of that character as scripted by the writer and not that of the performer.
This is a NY local project – producer cannot provide housing for the duration of the rehearsals or production. You must be local to NYC for this contract.
MILK & HONEY
Director: Robert W Schneider
Music Director: Harry Collins
Choreographer: Oren Korenblum
Music & Lyrics: Jerry Herman
Book: Don Appell
Original Production: Gerard Oestreicher
Venue: AMT Theatre, NYC
AEA Showcase
$500 stipend (non-negotiable and 10% commission will not be added)
DATES:
Rehearsals: 3/23/26 - 4/11/26
Tech: 4/13/26 -4/15/26
First Performance: 4/16 – 7:30pm
Performances: 7:30 PM: 4/16, 4/17, 4/18, 4/23, 4/24
2:00 PM: 4/25
3:00 PM: 4/19, 4/26
SYNOPSIS: Milk and Honey (1961) is centered on a group of American widows traveling to Israel in hopes of finding new love, set against the larger backdrop of the young nation’s struggle for independence. The story highlights the developing romance between Phil Arkin, an American visiting his daughter, and Ruth Stein, a widow, which is complicated by the revelation that Phil is still legally married. The musical blends lighthearted humor with themes of longing, renewal, and fresh starts, and is remembered for songs such as the title number and “Shalom.”
RUTH STEIN - (35–45, Female) An American visitor traveling with a group of widows. Warm, thoughtful, self-aware, and romantic, yet guarded. She falls for Phil despite the complications of his unresolved marriage. Mezzo-soprano with a rich, full legit tone.
PHIL ARKIN - (40–55, Male) A charismatic, easygoing American architect living in Israel. Separated from his wife but unable to finalize a divorce. Sincere, kind, emotionally conflicted, and deeply open-hearted. Baritone with a rich, full legit tone.
CLARA WEISS - (50–70, Female) A quick-witted, high-energy widow on the tour. Street-smart, bold, flamboyant, enthusiastic, and very funny. Mezzo-soprano with a strong belt.
MRS. SADIE GLICK - (50–70, Female) Another widow in the tour group. Practical, talkative, and a bit nosy. Mezzo-soprano.
MRS. RACHEL BELLA FROMKIN - (50–70, Female) The third widow on the tour. More reserved than her friends, but highly reactive. Mezzo-soprano.
BARBARA “B.A.” ARKIN - (20–30, Female) Phil’s daughter, living on a kibbutz. Torn between the communal lifestyle and her personal aspirations. Sensitive, intelligent, and caring. Soprano.
DAVID BEN-AMI - (25–35, Male) A sincere kibbutznik who loves B.A. but struggles with her growing dissatisfaction. Earnest, hardworking, grounded, and devoted to Israel’s future. Tenor.
TOUR GUIDE / ENSEMBLE - (30–60, All Gender Identities) Leads the American widows’ tour with a dry sense of humor. This performer also portrays additional ensemble roles. All vocal ranges.
ADI - (20s, Male) A young Israeli soldier embodying the energy and hope of the new nation. This track also covers other ensemble roles. Bari-tenor/Tenor.
ZIPPORAH - (20s, Female) A pregnant young woman who argues with her friends and partner (Adi) about their wedding plans, showcasing themes of finding love and belonging in a new land. Mezzo-Soprano.
AMBASSADOR / GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL/ ENSEMBLE - (40–65, All Gender Identities) A government representative appearing during Independence Day celebrations. This track also includes other ensemble roles. Character singing.
ENSEMBLE - (20s–40s) Strong singer-dancers who portray a wide range of characters, including kibbutz workers, Israeli soldiers, wedding guests, and American tourists. All vocal ranges. Must dance.
CARNIVAL
Director: Robert W Schneider
Music Director: Liz Hastings
Choreographer: Kaitlyn Frank
Music and Lyrics: Bob Merrill
Book: Michael Stewart
Based on material by: Helen Deutsch
Venue: AMT Theatre, NYC
AEA Showcase
$500 stipend (non-negotiable and 10% commission will not be added)
DATES:
Rehearsals: 4/06 - 4/25
Tech: 4/27 - 4/29
First Performance: 4/30 – 7:30pm
Performances: 7:30 PM: 4/30, 5/1, 5/2, 5/7, 5/8
2:00 PM: 5/09
3:00 PM: 5/3, 5/10
Carnival! tells the tender, bittersweet story of Lili, a naïve orphan who joins a shabby traveling circus in France. Enchanted by the charming but manipulative magician Marco, she is unaware that genuine comfort and love come from Paul, a cynical, disabled puppeteer who communicates his feelings through his puppets. Set against circus life and enriched with classic songs like “Love Makes the World Go ’Round,” the story builds to a heartfelt awakening about where true affection lies.
LILI: (20s, Female) A young orphan making a fresh start. She has infectious charm and sensitive heart – Lyric Soprano
PAUL: (30s, Male) An ex-dancer struggling to overcome his injuries. He now finds himself running the Puppet Show. Brooding, but sincere. Puppeteer skills a plus – Baritone with warmth
MARCO THE MAGNIFICENT: (30s-40s, Male); The carnival star magician with a rugged dark charisma. Magic/Sleight of hand skills a plus. Baritone
ROSALIE: (30s-40s, Female) Also a circus performer, she is long-suffering “girlfriend” of Marco. Mezzo Belter with bravado
SCHLEGEL: (40s-50s, Male) Schliegel is the hands-on circus owner/manager and a bit of a character to boot. Character Baritone
JACQUOT: (20s-40s, Male) Paul’s assistant in the Puppet Show. Seeking someone with instrument skills (concertina, mandolin, or guitar) – a plus but not required. Baritone
GROBERT: (40s-50s) “Concessionaire” of an older age. Ensemble Singing
PUPPETEERS/ENSEMBLE: (20+, All Gender Identities) Charming singer/puppeteers to execute the Carnival Puppet show within the show. Character Singing
ENSEMBLE: (Various Ages, All Gender Identities) Strong Dancer/Singers who will play various roles including Gladys Zuwicki, Greta Schlegel, Princess Olga, Dr. Glass, Strongman, Dog trainer and various Roustabouts. Especially seeking the following circus skills: Cyclists, Contortionists, Acrobats, Balance Skills, Stilt-Walkers and Jugglers. If submitting, please make note of your applicable skills in the submission. Strong Dance in ballet and Musical Theatre. Ensemble Singing – Various Ranges.
THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD
Director: Robert W Schneider
Music Director: Cannan J. Harris
Choreographer: Caitlin Belcik
Music, Lyrics & Book: Rupert Holmes
Venue: AMT Theatre, NYC
AEA Showcase
$500 stipend (non-negotiable and 10% commission will not be added)
DATES:
Rehearsals: 4/20 -5/09
First Performance: 5/14 @ 7:30pm
Performances: 7:30 PM: 5/14, 5/15, 5/16, 5/21, 5/22
2:00 PM: 5/23
3:00 PM: 5/17, 5/24
The Mystery of Edwin Drood is a playful, interactive musical adapted from Charles Dickens’s unfinished novel. Framed as a Victorian music hall performance, it invites the audience to decide the outcome after the charming Edwin Drood vanishes on Christmas Eve. Suspicion falls on a colorful cast—including his obsessive uncle John Jasper, the opium-den keeper Princess Puffer, and the enigmatic Landless twins—and the show concludes with a lively, comic finale in which the audience’s votes determine both the murderer and the final romantic match.
CHAIRMAN WILLIAM CARTWRIGHT/MAYOR THOMAS SAPSEA – (30s-50s, any gender) The leader of the music hall troupe. The Chairperson carries much of the dialogue and is quick with a joke and a skilled improviser. In charge of keeping the pace of the show moving. Strong mover. (Vocal Range: D#3 – F#4).
CLIVE PAGET/JOHN JASPER – (30-45, Male) The Theatre Royale’s male lead, a devilishly attractive cad, and he knows it. In Drood, he is the antagonist. Choirmaster of Cloisterham Cathedral, and uncle of Edwin Drood. In love with Rosa Bud. Madness lurks beneath his smooth exterior. Strong mover. Bright Tenor (Vocal Range: A2 – A4).
VICTOR GRINSTEAD/NEVILLE LANDLESS – (20s-30s) Victor is enjoying his premier performance with the Music Hall Royale. His Drood character, Neville, is Helena’s twin brother. Very passionate and often angry. Strong ensemble singer. Strong mover. Bari-Tenor (Vocal Range: C3 – G4).
CEDRIC MONCRIEFFE/REVEREND CRISPARKLE - (40s+, Male) This troupe member is a bit of an open book who plays an archetypal vicar, who is also a bit of a lurker, and was in love with Rosa’s mother. Strong mover. Strong ensemble singer. (Vocal Range: C3 – G4).
PHILLIP BAX/BAZZARD – (30s+, Male) Devotee of the theatre, the everlasting understudy, who finally gets his moment. May have quite a major part if the evening turns out his way. Strong mover. Mid-range Baritone (Vocal Range: A2 – Eb4).
NICK CRICKER SR./DURDLES - (30s+, Male) “Clown Prince of the Royale” who makes the most of every line and plays the drunkard sexton in Drood. Strong mover. Bari-tenor (Vocal Range: B2 – F4).
DEIRDRE PEREGRINE/ROSA BUD – (18-28, Female) The not-so-innocent ingenue of the Music Hall Royale, Deirdre portrays the love interest of Drood, the young, beautiful and apparently fragile Rosa Bud. Strong mover. Lyric Soprano (Vocal Range: A3 – B5).
ALICE NUTTING/EDWIN DROOD - (20s-40s, Female) Prima donna and London’s leading male impersonator, charming but, as you might expect, with determination and a lot of ego. Must command the stage. As Edwin Drood, she is an attractive, rich, and popular young man who has everything. Mezzo Soprano (Vocal Range: B3 – E5).
JANET CONOVER/HELENA LANDLESS – (30s, Female) Janet is a long-standing member of the acting troupe, asked to play the mysterious Helena Landless who hails from a mysterious foreign colony not unlike India. Strong mover. Mezzo Soprano – Mid Range Belt (Vocal Range: G3 – D5)
ANGELA PRYSOCK/PRINCESS PUFFER – (40s+, Female) Angela has been a favorite of London audiences forever, a staple of the stage. As the mysterious Princess Puffer, Madam, opium dealer and general purveyor of vice of all kinds, she is glamorous in her ruin. Must have a big chest voice and lots of rapport with the audience. Strong mover. Mezzo-Soprano (Vocal Range: F3 - D5)
FLO/ WENDY/BEATRICE/ENSEMBLE: (20s-30s, Female) Flo is an energetic everywoman - she is wardrobe and props mistress and ersatz stage manager. Wendy & Beatrice are contemporaries of Rosa Bud. Strong mover. Ensemble Singing. (Vocal Range: C4-D5)
NICK CRICKER JR./DEPUTY/ENSEMBLE - (18-20s, Male) As the Deputy, lowest in the pecking order, and very funny. Strong mover. Ensemble Singing (Vocal Range: B2 - F4)
ENSEMBLE – (20s-40s, All Gender Identities) Supporting company members that play a variety of roles. Strong mover. Ensemble Singing – Various ranges.