New York Theater Festival Announces Auditions for “This Side of Paradise” Musical
New York City’s vibrant theater scene is preparing to welcome a new production this summer, as auditions are now underway for “This Side of Paradise,” a musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s celebrated 1920 novel. The New York Theater Festival will host the production, offering performers a chance to bring the story of Amory Blaine and the Jazz Age to life. The search is on for talented actors and singers to fill a variety of roles in this highly anticipated staging, marking a significant step for the musical following a reading at The Producers Club. The production promises a captivating exploration of themes of love, literature and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
Based on Fitzgerald’s semi-autobiographical debut, “This Side of Paradise” follows the journey of Amory Blaine, a privileged and introspective young man navigating the complexities of Princeton University and the societal shifts of the 1920s. The musical delves into Amory’s romantic entanglements and intellectual pursuits as he grapples with questions of identity and purpose. The New York Theater Festival production aims to capture the spirit of the Jazz Age and the novel’s enduring relevance for contemporary audiences. Colby Thompson, the composer, playwright, and lyricist behind the musical, is leading the casting process, seeking performers who can embody the nuanced characters and emotional depth of Fitzgerald’s work.
Audition Details and Requirements
The casting call is specifically seeking performers currently based in New York City. Applicants are required to submit a video showcasing their singing ability, allowing the creative team to assess their vocal range and style. Strong acting skills are also essential, as the production demands a compelling portrayal of the characters and their relationships. While formal dance training is not a strict requirement, performers should be willing to learn choreography. The production team emphasizes the importance of commitment, noting that attendance at all scheduled rehearsals is crucial due to the limited rehearsal time available.
Rehearsals are tentatively scheduled to begin on May 19th, 2026, and will take place at various locations throughout New York City. The confirmed rehearsal dates, as of March 9th, 2026, include May 19th, May 26th, May 27th, June 2nd, June 3rd, June 9th, June 10th, June 16th, and June 17th. Rehearsal times will generally run from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Technical rehearsals are tentatively scheduled, with the location confirmed as Teatro LATEA, located at 107 Suffolk St, New York, NY 10002. Performances are scheduled for June 18th at 6:15 PM, June 20th at 2:15 PM, and June 21st at 6:00 PM, also at Teatro LATEA.
Role Breakdown
The production is casting for a diverse ensemble of characters, with a commitment to inclusive casting practices. All roles are open to actors of any ethnicity and gender identity, and performers will portray characters of college age, with some minor roles being older. The role of Amory Blaine has already been cast. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the remaining roles and vocal requirements:
- Tom D’Invilliers: A bookish and introverted college student, based on John Peale Bishop. (Vocal Range: C2-G4, optional B4). This actor will also play the minor character Slicker.
- Rosalind Connage: A critical and pragmatic debutante, based on Zelda Sayre. (Vocal Range: A3-D#5). This actor will also play Marylyn De Witt.
- Eleanor Savage: An eccentric and depressed intellectual young woman. (Vocal Range: A3-D#5). This actor will also play Myra St. Clair and Damsel.
- Burne Holiday: A well-liked and free-thinking college student. (Vocal Range: G#2-E4). This actor will also play Howard Gillespie and Mr. Savage.
- Beatrice Blaine: An elegant bon vivant, Amory’s mother. (Vocal Range: F#4-E5). This actor will also play Sally Weatherby and Mrs. Connage.
- Alec Connage: An ordinary college student, Rosalind’s brother. (Vocal Range: A2-D4). This actor will also play Little Man.
- Isabelle Borge: A naive socialite, based on Ginerva King. (Vocal Range: B3-F#5). This actor will also play Cecilia Connage and Amory’s Aunt.
- Dick Humbird: A popular but reckless college student. (Vocal Range: C#3-A#4). This actor will also play Massive Man, Director, and Man in Goggles.
- Female Understudy Track I: Supernumerary who understudies Rosalind and Eleanor.
- Female Understudy Track II: Supernumerary who understudies Beatrice and Isabelle.
- Male Understudy Track I: Supernumerary who understudies Amory and Burne.
- Male Understudy Track II: Supernumerary who understudies Tom, Burne, and Dick.
Actors will receive a small stipend for their participation in the production. Colby Thompson, a New York City-based composer, playwright, and director, has been developing this musical for several years, with a reading previously held at The Producers Club in August 2022. Thompson’s website details his extensive work in musical theatre, including “Chocolatier,” which received a studio cast album release in late 2025. He is also currently working on another musical, “Yes, Virginia,” and a non-musical play, “The Shape of Everything.”
Colby Thompson’s Background and Previous Work
Thompson graduated from the University of Vermont, where he penned his first complete musical, “The Tempest,” with a book by Amanda Hill. Since relocating to New York City, he has had his work showcased at venues including the Producers Club, the Green Room 42, and Ripley-Grier Studios. His musical “An Outrageous Outcome” premiered at The New York Theater Festival in July 2025, exploring the concept of luck and happenstance. BroadwayWorld reported on the premiere, highlighting the cast and creative team involved in the production. Thompson’s diverse portfolio demonstrates a commitment to innovative storytelling and musical expression.
The New York Theater Festival, as a platform for emerging and established artists, provides a valuable opportunity for “This Side of Paradise” to reach a wider audience. The festival’s dedication to showcasing new works aligns with Thompson’s artistic vision and promises a compelling theatrical experience for audiences. The production’s exploration of timeless themes, combined with Thompson’s musical talent, positions “This Side of Paradise” as a noteworthy addition to the New York City theater landscape.
The next key date for this production is the completion of casting, with rehearsals scheduled to commence shortly thereafter. Further updates regarding the production, including technical rehearsal dates and performance schedules, will be announced by the New York Theater Festival and on Colby Thompson’s website. Interested performers are encouraged to submit their audition materials promptly to be considered for a role in this exciting new musical.
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