Tusculum holding 'Pollyanna' auditions Jan. 18-22

GREENEVILLE — Theatre-at-Tusculum is seeking cast members later this month for the spring production of the upbeat musical "Pollyanna" on campus. Auditions for the Tusculum University production will take place Sunday, Jan. 18, through Tuesday, Jan. 20, each day starting at 6:30 p.m. in Behan Arena Theatre, which is located on the lower level of Annie Hogan Byrd Fine Arts Center. Steve Schultz, who is directing the show, is seeking at least 26 cast members, ideally 31, to present the story of perseverance and spirit that permeates "Pollyanna." Parts for children as young as 10 and adults of all ages are available. "We are thrilled to kick off the new year with another opportunity to showcase the amazing theatrical talent in our region and the high-caliber productions at Tusculum University," Schultz said. "Producing a musical is always great fun, and we have a dandy one this spring with 'Pollyanna.' We look forward to seeing the different gifts each potential cast member brings to the auditions as we prepare to assemble a team that will enthrall our audiences." Performances of "Pollyanna" will be held 7 p.m. April 17, April 18, April 24 and April 25 and at 2 p.m. April 19 and April 26 in the Marilyn duBrisk Theatre on Annie Hogan Byrd's main level. No prior theatrical experience is necessary to audition for "Pollyanna." Schultz, who also serves as director of Tusculum Arts Outreach, encourages auditions by those who have not participated in theater before but have an interest in pursuing it. Those who attend the auditions will be expected to sing songs from the musical. The list of selections will be posted to Tusculum Arts Outreach's Facebook page at facebook.com/TusculumArtsOutreach. People also can email Schultz at sschultz@tusculum.edu to obtain the list. In addition to singing, potential cast members will have to perform cold readings from the musical's script. "Pollyanna," set in the 1920s, is based on the novel of the same name that was written by Eleanor H. Porter. It tells the story of 10-year-old Pollyanna, who moves to Vermont after her parents pass away. She is initially greeted with suspicion in the town mainly because of her reclusive and bitter aunt, Polly Harrington. The girl responds with kindness and friendship, and that changes the mindset of the town. A spirit of community begins to emerge. But a tragic accident could undo all of her good, and it challenges her resilience more than ever. "Pollyanna" has been portrayed on film many times, and the music, lyrics and libretto for Tusculum's version of the musical were written by David Gipson. He moved to Greeneville from Pensacola, Florida, a couple of years ago to serve in music ministry. Gipson played Pulitzer in Tusculum's production of "Newsies" in 2024. The first stage reading of his script occurred in 2023. Gipson's take on this classic was winner of best stage play at the International Christian Film and Music Festival in 2025 and winner of best song at the Pensacola Theatre Festival in 2023. Gipson also won the BMI award for the television show "Trading Spaces" and serves as the music director for Broadway veteran J. Mark McVey. "It will be exciting to bring David's vision and script to life in the duBrisk Theatre," Schultz said. "We are energized and ready to develop a show that will appeal to people of all ages in the region." Anyone considering auditioning who has questions about "Pollyanna" can email Schultz at sschultz@tusculum.edu.