AUDITIONS FOR MARIA THE MUSICAL
at the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre

An original Australian musical development, part of Anywhere Festival 2026

Performance: Sunday 24th May, 5:30pm

📍 Redcliffe Entertainment Centre

💰 Pay: $300

✨ ABOUT THE SHOW

This musical is inspired by the true journey of Maria, a Chilean immigrant whose resilience and hope shine through powerful songs and storytelling. This new musical honours her journey of resilience, overcoming domestic violence, navigating the challenges of immigration, and raising her family against all odds. With music composed by Matthew Rabbas and orchestrations by internationally acclaimed composer Dr Daniel Rojas, the production is infused with a vibrant Latin American aesthetic. As a work in development, this performance will feature scenes and songs hosted by writer/director Cindy Sykes.

🎤 SEEKING MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMERS

We are casting actors who can sing and move well for the following roles:

🔹 Principal Roles:

1. Maria – Female lead (20-35), emotionally expressive, powerful singer

2. Marcos – Male lead (20-35), charming yet intense, strong vocals

3. Sergio – Male (40s–60s), warm, fatherly presence, featured singer

🔹 Ensemble:

Multirole ensemble of 6+, including neighbours, churchgoers, extended family, chorus. Confident singers/movers of all ages (16+) encouraged. Latinx/multicultural performers especially welcome.

📅 AUDITIONS

Sunday 8th February & Sunday 15th February

📍 29 Hughes Road East, Dakabin

🎥 Video Auditions Accepted
Visit this link to submit online:
https://forms.gle/srwK3JvQXVdWmXte6

What to prepare:

• 1 x musical theatre song (with character/emotion)

• 1 x short monologue (max 1 min)

• Dance component may be included for ensemble

REHEARSALS

- March: Virtual rehearsals (songs/choreography)

- April–May: In-person on Sundays 12–4pm & Wednesdays 6–9pm (TBC - may change based on cast availability)

- Tech Week: 16th–23rd May (evenings, TBC)

💼 REQUIREMENTS

All cast must hold current Public Liability Insurance (PLI). If you do not have your own, you will be required to become a financial member of Introspect Theatre Company ($60).

🎟 TO AUDITION

Sign up via Humanitix

Any questions? Email introspect.theatreco@gmail.com

In Depth Character Descriptions:

Maria (Female, Lead, Mezzo-Soprano/Soprano, 20-35, Chilean/Latina)
Maria is warm-hearted, determined, and full of life. She has a deep love for her family and a strong sense of responsibility, balancing her role as a daughter, sister, and young woman discovering herself. She is playful and quick-witted but also carries a quiet resilience, shaped by her experiences. Maria has a natural charisma and a dreamer’s spirit, though she is grounded by the realities of her life. The role requires strong acting, singing, and movement abilities to capture her emotional journey from innocence to self-discovery.

Marcos (Male, Lead, Tenor/Baritone, 20-35, Chilean/Latino)
Marcos is charming, intelligent, and ambitious, but underneath his confidence, he wrestles with deep insecurities, possessiveness, and a need for control. A student of engineering at Universidad de Chile, he is determined to create a successful future, yet his personal struggles and emotional volatility affect his relationships—particularly with Maria. At first, he appears to be romantic and charismatic, forming an undeniable bond with Maria, but as their relationship deepens, his jealousy, manipulation, and controlling nature begin to surface. He fluctuates between tenderness and aggression, making him both captivating and unpredictable. His charm masks a darker intensity, leading to moments of passion, conflict, and emotional turbulence.The actor portraying Marcos must have strong emotional range—capable of being charming and affectionate one moment, then intense and domineering the next. Strong acting and singing skills are required to convey his complexity and gradual transformation throughout the story.

Sergio (Male, Supporting, Tenor/Baritone, 40-60s, Chilean/Latino)
Sergio is Maria’s father and a devoted colporteur (traveling book salesman), driven by faith and optimism. He is larger-than-life, with a booming voice and an infectious enthusiasm for life, faith, and family. He is deeply respected by his children, and while he can be firm, he leads with kindness and wisdom. He has a strong presence, but also moments of warmth and quiet reflection. The role requires a strong actor with a commanding yet tender stage presence and solid singing ability.

Latin Ensemble (Chilean/Latin American - All Genders, Various Ages)
The Latin Ensemble portrays the vibrant community of Chile, including Maria’s siblings, townspeople, vendors, colporteurs, and family friends. This group brings to life the rhythm, warmth, and energy of Chile through music, movement, and dynamic interactions. Members of the Latin Ensemble may have featured singing, dancing, or speaking roles, with opportunities to showcase traditional Chilean music and dance (Cueca, folk rhythms, etc.). Strong ensemble skills are required, with versatility in character work and movement.

Australian Ensemble (All Genders, Various Ages)
The Australian Ensemble represents Maria’s experience in her new home, including neighbours, officials, and community members who shape her transition into Australian life. Some characters are welcoming, while others present obstacles or challenges to her integration. This ensemble will embody the contrast between cultures, using humour, dramatic moments, and physical storytelling to highlight Maria’s journey. Strong singing, acting, movement, and ensemble-building skills are required.

Additional Notes:

All roles require strong ensemble collaboration and a passion for storytelling.
Bilingual performers (Spanish/English) are highly encouraged to audition for Latin Ensemble and Lead Roles.
Movement ability is a plus for all ensemble members, as dance and physical storytelling are integral to the production.

MEET THE TEAM

Producer and Librettist: Cindy Sykes

Bio: Cindy Sykes is the visionary President and Artistic Director of Introspect Theatre Company, which she founded in 2020. With a Master of Applied Theatre Studies and a Bachelor of Education specialising in Drama and English, Cindy is a dynamic artist and educator. Under her leadership, Introspect Theatre Company has gained critical acclaim for its innovative and impactful productions.

As a Drama educator, Cindy has directed a wide array of productions, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the arts. She is known for her creative ability to develop original works and adapt existing plays, offering students and audiences unique and transformative experiences. Cindy's directorial accomplishments also extend to large-scale, community-driven projects that have reached thousands of people, further cementing her role as a leader in the arts. Cindy’s passion for theatre and education continues to inspire, and her leadership ensures that her work leaves a lasting impact on both the local and broader artistic communities.

Composer and Lyricist: Matthew Rabbas

Bio: Matthew Rabbas is a prodigious musician renowned for his extraordinary talent in piano and composition. With 15 years of rigorous classical training, Matthew’s improvisational skill is exceptional, allowing him to create immersive musical worlds with astonishing ease. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music at the Queensland Conservatorium, he is regarded as an exceptionally gifted and innovative young musician. His extraordinary musicality makes him a valuable asset to any project or musical venture. Matthew’s combination of creative brilliance and technical mastery continues to set him apart in the musical world.

Orchestrator and Musical Arranger: Daniel Rojas

Bio: Dr. Daniel Rojas is an award-winning composer and renowned tango piano specialist, celebrated for his vibrant Latin American aesthetic and stunning improvisations. Holding a doctorate in composition from Sydney University, where he is Program Director of Composition at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Rojas’ accolades include the 2021 Piazzolla International Music Competition, Fellowship of Australian Composers Award, and Frank Albert Prize. A former Composer-in-Residence for the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, his works have been performed by leading ensembles such as the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Sydney University Symphony Orchestra. His recent album, Bliss of Heaven: Music from the New World, was recorded in São Paulo and garnered widespread acclaim. Rojas continues to engage audiences through performances with renowned musicians and orchestras, including the North Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Willoughby Symphony Orchestra. He is published by Reed Music Australia and the Australian Music Centre.

Contact the host of Auditions for ‘Maria the Musical’ Sneak Peek at REC