JOURNEY CROSS & CRUCIFIXION AUDITIONS (ENGLISH)

The CM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER is holding open auditions for performers of all ages and skill levels for their annual touring dramatic prayer service JOURNEY CROSS & CRUCIFIXION on Wednesday, January 22 and Thursday, January 23 at 7:30PM.

Please prepare a 16 – 32 bar cut of a spiritual song of your choosing. An accompanist will be provided. For those interested in speaking roles, there will be a monologue portion of the audition. Sides will be provided

The CM Performing Arts Center is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in the casting and encourages actors of diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups to audition. If you are unable to attend auditions but wish to be involved, please contact Jon@cmpac.com to set up an alternative audition date.

Services of Journey Cross & Crucifixion take place at various churches and parishes across Long Island from Ash Wednesday through Good Friday. A list of confirmed services will be provided at the first rehearsal. Please note the schedule of services is subject to change due to churches still booking.

Rehearsals will take place on Sundays at 6PM and Mondays at 7PM. You must be able to attend at least one of the two weekly rehearsals.

ABOUT JOURNEY CROSS & CRUCIFIXION:

The 2025 Lent Season will mark our 38th year of presenting

Step back in time and walk alongside Christ in Journey Cross & Crucifixion, a powerful live reenactment of the Stations of the Cross that brings the Passion story vividly to life. This immersive experience combines heartfelt music, soul-stirring singing, and graceful liturgical dance to guide you on a journey that transcends time. You’ll feel as though you are witnessing these moments for the first time, becoming one with Christ and the people who walked with Him.

Through a seamless blend of music, narration, dialogue, and poignant silences, the Journey draws you into the emotional depths of the Passion. You’ll experience the devastation and heartbreak of Mary, the inner turmoil of Simon, John’s profound isolation, Pilate’s battle between justice and self-preservation, and the unimaginable suffering of Jesus as He carries the Cross to Calvary.

For over 30 years, this deeply moving Lenten tradition has touched hearts in churches and schools across Long Island. Volunteer actors, singers, and musicians bring their talents to this extraordinary performance, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on the Passion story in a way that is both personal and transformative. Join us for this unforgettable prayerful experience.

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN (ALL ROLES OPEN):

JESUS — looking to cast someone who can portray the Son of God mostly through facial expression and body language. Jesus is a non-singing role. Will deliver a few lines during the crucifixion. Must be able to carry the weight of the cross through the church during the service. (Non-singing role)

VERONICA — wipes Jesus’ face with her veil at the Sixth Station. Strong, compassionate, a believer. Veronica will perform a monologue as well as sing the lead on “Were You There” and “Could We Start Again, Please?” (Soprano)

JOSEPH OF ARIMATHEA — a wealthy man and priest of the Sanhedrin – the Council who called for Jesus’ crucifixion. Joseph, however, was opposed to their decision as he was a secret follower of Jesus. Joseph will perform a monologue. (Choral singer only)

SIMON — a field worker who was pulled from the crowd by the Roman Soldiers to help carry Jesus’ cross. Simon will perform a monologue as well as sing the lead on “Lay Your Burden Down”. (Tenor)

JOHN — the youngest of the 12 disciples and the only one who witnesses the crucifixion. John will perform a monologue as well as sing a section of “Could We Start Again, Please?” (Tenor)

MARY — the mother of Jesus. Mary will perform a monologue as well as the heartbreaking “Pieta”. (Soprano)

FRIEND — a friend of Veronica and follower of Jesus. She will perform a monologue as well as sing a section of “Could We Start Again, Please?” (Alto)

HEAD SOLDIER — head of the Roman Soldiers that crucify Jesus. He comes to believe that Jesus is the Son of God after the crucifixion. (Non-singing role)

Additional roles (Pontius Pilate, Additional Roman Soldiers, Mary Mover, Prayer Leaders, Veneration Soloists) will be cast from the Chorus during rehearsals.