The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse

AEA and Non Casting Announcement – 2026 Season  

The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse, Pennsylvania’s premier professional summer theatre, is located within the breathtaking 1,200-acre Caledonia State Park, between Gettysburg and Chambersburg, PA. We are currently seeking performers to join us for our 76th award-winning, four-show season.

Totem Pole Playhouse produces Equity productions and presents select guest productions as part of its summer series. With its stellar industry reputation, The New York Times has described Totem Pole Playhouse as “the Cadillac of summer theaters.”

Contact for casting: [email protected]

General Information

Our standard production process includes 10–14 days of studio rehearsals, costume fittings, and press activities. This is followed by three and a half days of technical and dress rehearsals, which include one “10 out of 12” rehearsal and culminating in one invited dress rehearsal.

Performance runs typically consist of 18–20 performances, depending on the title. Mondays are always scheduled days off, and once we are through opening weekend, Fridays are occasionally dark/no performance.

Totem Pole maintains a modest office staff and a technical team of 18–20 individuals who staff our shops and run crew. Totem Pole Playhouse holds collective bargaining agreements with the Actor’s Equity Association (AEA), Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) and United Scenic Artists (USA).

Historically, Totem Pole Playhouse has operated under an LOA to the COST contract with Actors’ Equity Association. Our Equity contract is up for renewal in 2026; while negotiations are ongoing, we expect terms to land very close to those outlined here. We are currently seeking AEA members for both Principal and Chorus contracts, and we are also accepting AEA stage management submissions for Stage Managers and Assistant Stage Managers.

Compensation and Housing & Transportation

For AEA specific information see the breakdown sent out by AEA.

For Non-AEA.  Roles can range from a weekly salary, to a stipend to volunteer.

While Totem Pole Playhouse does not own housing, we provide accommodations for guest artists through a variety of arrangements, including apartments and dormitories at local colleges, Airbnb rentals, and housing provided by local hosts. Housing is generally located 2–15 miles from the Playhouse. Additionally, we have a limited number of company cars available to assist with local travel logistics.

Season Overview

The 2026 Summer Season runs from May 30 through August 30, 2026.
The Holiday Season runs from December 3 through December 14, 2026 and will have separate auditions in the fall.

2026 Season Productions

• A Night With Janis Joplin
• Come From Away
• Oscar and Felix: A New Look at The Odd Couple
• South Pacific
• A Christmas Carol

Clarification:
Karen Hester as Dolly appears on our season calendar as a presented engagement. This production is produced by another organization and is not being cast by Totem Pole Playhouse.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and to providing equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local laws.

If you require reasonable accommodations to apply or participate in the hiring process, please contact
Ryan B. Gibbs at [email protected].

Season Auditions – Local AEA Open Call (will see Non AEA as time allows)

(This will be Totem Pole’s only in-person audition this season)

Location:
Majestic Theatre
25 Carlisle Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325

Dates:
Saturday, January 31: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday, February 1: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Staffing (both days):
Producer/Director: Ryan B. Gibbs
Musical Director: Steve Zumbrun

An accompanist and audition monitor will be provided both days.

SIGN UP HERE  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4DA5AA2BA5FEC07-61444379-totem#/

Preparation

For singing roles in musicals:
Please prepare a short song (maximum 2 minutes) in a style appropriate to the season’s shows. Be prepared to sing an additional contrasting selection if requested. Please bring sheet music, headshot, résumé, and your repertoire book. An accompanist will be provided.

Please also prepare a short monologue (45 seconds) appropriate to the style of the season, in case it is requested.

For acting-only roles in plays or musicals:
Please prepare a 60-second monologue appropriate to the style of the season.

We will also hold brief stage management interviews.

PRODUCTION BREAKDOWNS

A Night With Janis Joplin

Totem Pole Playhouse Dates:
Rehearsals begin: May 12, 2026
Opens: May 29, 2026
Closes: June 13, 2026

Gretna Theatre Transfer:
Tech/Sound Check: June 16–17, 2026
Opens: June 18, 2026
Closes: June 21, 2026

A Night With Janis Joplin is a musical celebration of the legendary rock and blues icon Janis Joplin. Featuring many of her greatest hits—including “Piece of My Heart” and “Me and Bobby McGee”—the show also honors the powerful artists who influenced her sound, such as Bessie Smith, Nina Simone, Etta James, and Aretha Franklin.

Set in 1970, the musical offers a contemporary concert-style take on Joplin’s life and legacy, bringing her music and the stories of her influences vividly to life. Since its debut in 2011, A Night With Janis Joplin has enjoyed widespread success, touring extensively and earning a limited engagement in London’s West End.

Totem Pole Playhouse’s production will be the Central Pennsylvania/Northern Maryland Regional Premiere of the piece. This production is a co-production between Totem Pole Playhouse and Gretna Theatre, with the Totem Pole production transferring to Gretna Theatre for a consecutive limited engagement. The transfer will occur with no break in employment for the company. 

Creative Team:
Produced by The Caledonia Theatre Company at Totem Pole Playhouse – Ryan B. Gibbs
Directed by Ryan B. Gibbs
Associate Director/Choreographer: Joshua Green
Musical Director: Lena Gabrielle

Casting Breakdown:Looking for the following roles and understudies (possibly external) 

Janis Joplin (and Alternate): Female, late 20s. A force of nature with an authentic rock & roll/blues voice, incredible range, and chords of steel. Range: G3–A5. Capturing the iconic sound and presence of Janis is a priority.

Special Note: The Janis Alternate will have scheduled public performances and will also cover the Joplinaires chorus tracks (not their historic features).

Joplinaires (4): Female-identifying Black performers with strong blues, rock, and legit vocal skills. Ranges vary from G3–E5/A5. These are chorus contracts with features. The Joplinaires serve as Janis’s backup singers in her band and additionally portray features of  the women who most influenced her sound, including Etta James, Odetta, Bessie Smith, The Chantels, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, a Blues Singer (“Summertime”), and The Blues Woman. Feature tracking may be adjusted from original tracking based on casting.

Come From Away

Totem Pole Playhouse Dates
Rehearsals begin: June 2, 2026
Opens: June 19, 2026
Closes: July 4, 2026

Produced by: The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse – Ryan B. Gibbs
Directed and Choreographed by: Christine O’Grady
Associate Director: Luke Reed Musical Director: Jane Best

Production Description:
Come From Away tells the true story of the September 11 attacks, when 6,579 airline passengers were unexpectedly stranded in Gander, Newfoundland. As planes from around the world were diverted, the residents of Gander and surrounding towns welcomed the passengers with food, shelter, and compassion. The musical captures the extraordinary generosity, resilience, and humanity that emerged during this unprecedented moment, highlighting the deep connections formed between strangers in a time of crisis.

Casting Breakdown:Looking for the following roles and understudies (possibly external) 

Claude & Others – Male-identifying, any ethnicity, 40–60. The gregarious and well-liked Mayor of Gander, Claude loves his work, the townspeople, and his daily traditions, but has never faced a crisis of this magnitude. Doubles as Derm and Eddie. Vocal range top: G4.

Bonnie & Others – Female-identifying, any ethnicity, 30–40. A no-nonsense mother of three and head of the Gander SPCA. Fiercely protective of the animals stranded on planes, Bonnie is passionate and outspoken. Doubles as Martha. Vocal range top: B4.

Beulah & Others – Female-identifying,, any ethnicity, 35–60. Head of the Gander Legion, with a firefighter son. Warm, steady, and deeply compassionate. Doubles as Delores.

Oz & Others – Male-identifying, any ethnicity, 25–50. A quirky constable in Gander’s two-person police force. As the town’s population doubles overnight, Oz rises to the challenge in unexpected ways. Doubles as Joey, Customs Officer, Mr. Michaels, Terry, Matty, Rabbi, and Head Cardiologist. Vocal range top: G4.

Janice & Others – Female-identifying, any ethnicity, 20–30. An eager local TV reporter on her first assignment, thrown into global tragedy. Doubles as Britney and Flight Attendant. Vocal range top: E5.

Beverley & Others – Female-identifying, any ethnicity, 40–55. The first female captain for American Airlines, Beverly Bass has always loved flying until her world abruptly changes. Doubles as Annette and Reporter. Vocal range top: C#5.

Diane & Others – Female-identifying, any ethnicity, 35–50. A traditional divorcee from Texas terrified that her son may have been flying on 9/11. Through the experience, she discovers new freedom and joy. Doubles as Crystal and Brenda. Vocal range: A3–C#5.

Bob & Others – Male-identifying, Black 20–40. A hardened New Yorker who initially distrusts Gander, expecting the worst, and is transformed by kindness. Doubles as Muhumuza and Captain Bristol.

Nick & Others – Male-identifying, any ethnicity, 35–55. A reserved English oil engineer whose life is upended when he falls for Diane. Doubles as Doug, Officer Stephenson, and Male Townsperson. Vocal range top: E4.

Kevin T & Others – Male-identifying, any ethnicity, 25–40. A corporate executive from Los Angeles stranded with his boyfriend. Inspired by Gander’s generosity, he later founds the Pay It Forward Foundation. Doubles as Garth and President Bush. Vocal range top: G4.

Kevin J & Others –  Male-identifying Kevin’s boyfriend and secretary. Sarcastic and unhappy, he wants to leave as soon as possible. Ali: An Egyptian man traveling to America who experiences isolation and Islamophobia but who finds a connection to Beulah. Also plays Dwight.

Hannah & Others – Female-identifying, Black 35–55. The mother of a New York firefighter anxiously awaiting news. Her quiet strength anchors the show. Doubles as Margie and Mickey. Vocal range top: E5.

Special notes: Our plan is to utilize the actor’s natural hair in this production.  

Oscar and Felix: A New Look at the Odd Couple

Totem Pole Playhouse Dates
Rehearsals begin: June 23, 2026
Opens: July 10, 2026
Closes: July 25, 2026

Produced by: The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse – Ryan B. Gibbs
Directed by: John Putch

Production Description:
This contemporary reimagining of The Odd Couple updates the classic story with modern references while preserving the iconic relationship between Oscar and Felix.

Casting Breakdown: Looking for the following roles and understudies (possibly external) 

Oscar Madison – 50s. A carefree, good-natured, divorced sportswriter who lives alone in a messy eight-room New York apartment. Male Identifying 

Felix Unger – 50s. A fussy man who knows he is difficult to live with but cannot—or will not—make compromises. Male Identifying 

Ynez Costazuela – 30s–40s. Oscar and Felix’s upstairs neighbor, one of a pair of Spanish sisters. A widow. Female Identifying 

Julia Costazuela – 30s–40s. Oscar and Felix’s upstairs neighbor, one of a pair of Spanish sisters. A divorcée. Female Identifying 

Speed – 50s–70s. One of Oscar and Felix’s poker buddies. Gruff, sarcastic, and frequently picks on Vinnie and Murray.  Could be male or female identifying.

Murray – 40s–60s. An NYPD policeman and poker buddy. Male Identifying 

Roy – 40s–60s. Oscar’s accountant and poker buddy. Dry-witted but less abrasive than Speed. Male Identifying 

Vinnie – 40s–60s. A mild-mannered, hen-pecked poker buddy and frequent target of Speed’s barbs. Male Identifying 

Special notes: Our plan is to utilize the actor’s natural hair in this production. 

South Pacific

Totem Pole Playhouse Dates
Rehearsals begin: July 14, 2026
Opens: July 31, 2026
Closes: August 16, 2026

Produced by: The Caledonia Theatre Company at the Totem Pole Playhouse – Ryan B. Gibbs
Directed by: Ryan B. Gibbs
Musical Directors: Darren Server / Steve Zumbrun
Choreographer: Jenn Reed.

Production Description:
South Pacific is set on a remote Pacific island during World War II, where American service members stationed far from home confront love, longing, and the realities of war. Two parallel romances—between Navy nurse Nellie Forbush and French planter Emile de Becque, and between Marine Lt. Joe Cable and a young island woman—unfold against a backdrop of military duty and cultural collision. As friendships form and lives intertwine, the characters are forced to confront fear, loss, and deeply rooted prejudice.

Casting Breakdown: Looking for the following roles and understudies (possibly external) 

Nellie Forbush: Female-identifying is a Navy nurse in her 30s–40s with an open heart and infectious optimism. A soprano (B3–C6), she sings “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair” and “A Wonderful Guy.”

Emile de Becque: Male-identifying, is a cultured French ex-patriot, 40s–50s, with a rich baritone voice (G2–G4). He sings “Some Enchanted Evening” and “This Nearly Was Mine.”

Bloody Mary: Female-identifying, a Tonkinese businesswoman in her 40s–60s, is sharp, funny, and fiercely protective of her daughter. An alto/mezzo (G3–E5), she sings “Bloody Mary” and “Happy Talk.”

Lt. Joseph Cable: Male-identifying, is a young Marine officer in his 20s with a lyrical tenor voice (C3–B4). He sings “Younger Than Springtime” and “You’ve Got to Be Carefully Taught.”

Liat: Female-identifying, Bloody Mary’s daughter, is in her late teens to early 20s and is a largely non-speaking role featured in “Happy Talk.” Strong dance and physical storytelling required.

Luther Billis: Male-identifying, is a charismatic Seabee in his 30s–50s with a baritone/tenor range (C3–G4). He sings “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame” and “Honey Bun.”

Professor: Male-identifying, is a Seabee, 20s–30s, thoughtful and dryly humorous. Featured in “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame.”

Stewpot: Male-identifying, is a Seabee in his 20s–30s with strong ensemble skills, singing in “There Is Nothin’ Like a Dame” and “Honey Bun.”

Captain Brackett: Male-identifying, is a career Navy officer in his 40s–60s, primarily a spoken role with ensemble vocals.

Commander Harbison: Male-identifying, is a senior naval commander 30’s, firm and no-nonsense, also primarily spoken with ensemble vocals.

Ngana: Female-identifying is Emile’s daughter, age 8–12, with a child soprano voice, singing “Dites-Moi” in French.

Jerome: Male-identifying, is Emile’s younger child, also 8–12, playful and curious, singing “Dites-Moi.”

Ensemble: both Male and Female-identifying, members portray Sailors, Seabees, Marines, Navy Nurses, and Island Residents. All genders, ages 18+, and vocal ranges encouraged. Strong character work and period authenticity required.

A Christmas Carol

Holiday Production – Separate Fall Auditions

Venue: Majestic Theatre, Gettysburg
First Rehearsal: November 17, 2026
Opens: December 4, 2026
Closes: December 13, 2026

We are accepting early submissions for A Christmas Carol. While materials will be reviewed on a rolling basis, a dedicated in-person audition call will be held in September, which will serve as the primary casting opportunity.

Synopsis:
Set in Victorian London, A Christmas Carol follows the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter and isolated miser who is visited on Christmas Eve by a series of supernatural spirits. Through visions of his past, present, and possible future, Scrooge is forced to confront the consequences of his choices and ultimately discovers the redemptive power of generosity, compassion, and human connection.

Character Breakdown:
Ebenezer Scrooge: Male-Identifying- is an older businessman whose rigid exterior masks regret and loneliness. This is a demanding, transformative leading role requiring emotional depth and stamina.
Bob Cratchit: Male-Identifying- is Scrooge’s loyal clerk—gentle, warm, and quietly resilient despite hardship.
Mrs. Cratchit and the Cratchit Family: both Male and Female-identifying- are loving, resourceful, and central to the heart of the story.
Jacob Marley: Male-Identifying- is Scrooge’s former partner, now a ghost burdened by the consequences of a wasted life.
The Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come: both Male and Female-identifying-  are otherworldly guides who lead Scrooge toward transformation, each distinct in tone and presence.
Ensemble: both Male and Female-identifying-  members portray Londoners of all ages, including townspeople, party guests, schoolmates, businessmen, and spirits.

Additional audition details will be announced closer to the September call.

ALL CALLBACKS WILL BE CONDUCTED VIA VIDEO SUBMISSION

VIDEO SUBMISSIONS FOR ALL ROLES WILL BE ACCEPTED- WE WILL NOT REVIEW THEM UNTIL AFTER OUT LOCAL AUDITIONS

Preparation

For all actors submitting:  Please include current headshot and resume and a brief note expressing what you would like to be considered for.

For singing roles in musicals:
Please include a short video -a reel or song you have that you feel best reflects our season.

Optionally, we will review a video of a short monologue (45 seconds) appropriate to the style of the season, should you wish to send it along.  Not required

For acting-only roles in plays or musicals:
Please submit a video of a 60-second monologue appropriate to the style of the season.