Theatre Group Asia (TGA), in partnership with Ayala Land, Ayala Malls, and Seda, has officially announced open casting calls for its upcoming production of A Chorus Line. The production will be directed and choreographed by Emmy Award-winner and Broadway powerhouse Karla Puno Garcia. In a creative twist, the casting process will reflect the musical’s storyline, where performers undergo an intense and emotionally charged audition for a chance to secure a place in the chorus line.
A Landmark Musical Celebrating 50 Years
A Chorus Line is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. First staged in 1975, the musical changed Broadway by giving a voice to ensemble dancers, who are often overlooked despite their vital role in productions. The show follows 17 dancers competing for eight coveted roles, presenting a raw and heartfelt look at ambition, sacrifice, and individuality.
The musical is renowned for its minimalist stage design, iconic choreography, and deeply personal monologues. It has won prestigious awards, including the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and multiple Tony Awards, such as Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical (James Kirkwood), Best Original Score (Marvin Hamlisch and Edward Kleban), Best Director (Michael Bennett), and Best Choreography (Michael Bennett and Bob Avian).
For the first time, an all-Filipino cast will take the spotlight, showcasing the Philippines’ cultural depth and international talent. TGA’s production aims to preserve the groundbreaking essence of the original while connecting its themes to a new generation.
Director’s Vision and Personal Connection
“This production is as much about discovering raw, beautiful talent as it is about telling a story,” says Karla Puno Garcia. “We’re casting A Chorus Line the way it was meant to be, through a reality show-like journey that’s full of heart, competition, and extraordinary vulnerability.”
Garcia also emphasized her personal connection to the story. “I’ve lived this story,” she shares. “I’ve been the dancer hoping to be seen, fighting to be chosen, giving everything to the moment. Now, I get to turn that experience into an opportunity for others.”
She will work with Executive Producer Chris Mohnani, a former internationally acclaimed danseur, and Associate Choreographer JM Cabling. Together, they will search for talents who embody individuality, strong stage presence, and deep passion for the craft.
Who’s qualified?
Theatre Group Asia celebrates diversity in casting, encouraging performers of all backgrounds to audition. The auditions are open to all aspiring performers of Filipino heritage: dancers, singers, and actors of all gender identities, aged 18 years old and above.
Auditions will be conducted on-site, offering participants the best chance to showcase their talent directly to the casting team. In-person auditions will be prioritized in the selection process, as they allow the team to fully experience each performer’s presence, energy, and artistry in real time.
For those unable to attend in person due to geographical constraints or prior commitments, an online submission option is available. To view the requirements and submit video audition materials, please visit: https://forms.gle/XHeoT8QHAAc1GtF97. While all online submissions will be reviewed, priority consideration will be given to in-person auditions.
Interested performers are highly encouraged to pre-register and review the full instructions through the following links corresponding to the location where you will attend:
- September 6 – Manila – Samsung Performing Arts Theater
(https://forms.gle/Q54JnLtrWLVvYH9R7) - September 13 – Cebu – stay tuned for venue announcement
(https://forms.gle/CdLy2DmAgRSigHi99) - September 20 – Bacolod – Ayala Malls Capitol Central, Function Hall 1, The Central Hall, Gatuslao St., Bacolod City
(https://forms.gle/nHq2qc9oN73gywmh7) - October 11 – Davao – Locsin Dance Workshop, 89 Elpidio Quirino Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City
(https://forms.gle/NWtgUwPcEcSoAgoC6) - October 25 – Manila – Samsung Performing Arts Theater
(https://forms.gle/G1KVFcRAVcv725hw7)
Walk-in registrations will be accepted on the day of auditions, but spots may be limited. Final casting will be made following the Manila bootcamp, where selected finalists will undergo intensive training and creative workshops.
What is required?
- Familiarity with A Chorus Line musical and characters
- Strong dance foundation (ballet, jazz, or modern)
- Ability to sing and act
- Copy of filled-out registration form and résumé with most recent headshot
What to prepare?
- Résumé with your most recent headshot
- Copy of filled-out registration form
- Two songs of any genre or language: 32 bars of any fast and any slow song that show off vocal range
- Costumes are not required, but styling inspired by the characters in A Chorus Line is encouraged
- Dance shoes, comfortable clothing, water, and snacks
- An excerpt of a monologue from A Chorus Line to be acted out. Refer to the character breakdown included in the form/website (https://www.theatregroupasia.com/auditions) and choose 1-2 characters to prepare sides or monologues for
- Arrive on time. Auditions will start strictly on schedule
- Be ready with your calendar to note any schedule conflict during the rehearsal period
What will be asked?
- Auditioners will be taught one dance combination on site as their dance audition piece. Everyone will be given half a day to master the choreography
- Two vocal performances with lyrics preferably memorized
- One to two memorized monologue deliveries
On what she’s looking for, Puno Garcia explains, “We’re searching for talent that’s exciting, unique, and individual, performers with a strong sense of self. That’s vital to bringing the musical’s characters to life. For those interested, I say: Dance your face off and be a star! Follow your gut, get ready, and go for it! Trust yourself. What you perceive as flaws might just be your superpower. Although we’re looking for an ensemble, each dancer should make the effort to be seen. We want to meet who you are.”
An audition teaser video is available at https://youtu.be/OAcuLDASF1Y?si=DpK3jgLnmKlYsnch. Updates and further details will be shared on TGA’s social media accounts and website.
For more information about the auditions, visit www.theatregroupasia.com, Instagram @theatregroupasia, or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/theatregroupasia.
