FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer – In-Community open call
SEEKING: 40s-50s, Black, femme-presenting singer/performer/actor for mainstage show and community tour musical.
The Kansas City Repertory Theatre is proud to produce FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer, directed by Associate Artistic Director Morgana Wilborn and continuing the KC Rep For All community tour. We are holding an open audition to invite our community to be considered for the role of Fannie.
If you or someone you know would like to be seen for this production, we invite you to meet us and audition!
What is the show about?
“Fannie: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer” explores the pain and triumphs of American civil rights hero Fannie Lou Hamer. Her story exemplifies courage, hope, and the belief that we are all responsible for our country. From her humble origins as the daughter of a Mississippi sharecropper, to co-founding the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and demanding recognition at the National Democratic Convention, hers is a story of justice that will not be denied.
See a character description below:
Fannie Lou Hamer (40ish – 50ish, Vocal range: Flexible; strong traditional gospel & soul foundation required) is the sole onstage performer in this one‑woman play with music. A powerful Black actor‑singer-storyteller is sought to embody legendary civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer, telling her own story through song, testimony, and direct address. The performer carries the full arc of the piece, guiding the audience through moments of humor, righteous fury, sorrow, joy, and unshakable faith. The performer must have strong vocal stamina and comfort leading call‑and‑response moments, at times supported by a live band and occasional audience participation. This portrayal is not an impersonation, but an embodied act of witnessing. An artist with gravitas, warmth, political awareness, and spiritual grounding is essential.
When will the show be?
FANNIE: The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer, directed by Morgana Wilborn
First rehearsal: January 19, 2027
Tech rehearsals: Feb. 10 – Feb. 14
First preview: Feb. 16
Opening: Feb. 19
Closing on-stage: March 7
KC Rep For All tour dates: March 11 – 22
Where/when will auditions be?
KC Rep has partnered with church organizations in our area to hold 2 evenings of open auditions:
- Monday 8/24/26, 5:00 – 9:00 pm
- Community Christian Church | 4601 Main Street | Kansas City, MO 64112
- https://community4kc.org/connect/celebrate-the-arts
- Tuesday 8/25/26, 5:00 – 9:00 pm
- Morning Star Youth and Family Life Center | 2525 East 27th St | Kansas City, MO 64127
- https://kclinc.org/morningstar/
How do I prepare?
We are excited to approach this audition opportunity with inclusivity, and not barriers. To audition, please prepare a short, one-minute story/monologue and a short vocal selection. You may prepare “This Little Light of Mine” or “Woke Up This Morning With My Mind Stayed On Freedom” to be sung with our accompanist, or any selection you would like a cappella. Please choose a story or monologue that showcases your acting/storytelling ability and style.
How do I sign up?
Email casting@kcrep.org to schedule your audition. Please include:
- Which audition day/location you would like to attend
- What time within the 5 pm – 9 pm range you would like to be seen
- Any questions you have about how to prepare
KC Rep Artistic Associate Darrington Clark will respond to answer your questions, schedule your audition and confirm your location and time. When you arrive at your audition, you will fill out an actor registration form with more information.
What do I need to bring?
All you need is yourself and your prepared monologue and song! If you have an acting resume and/or headshot, we will be delighted take it.
