Free Workshops FAQs

Things to Know About Our Free Workshops

Q: Are there age restrictions for the workshop?

A: Any age may attend the workshop. However, those under 18 must have a parent with them at the beginning of the first class in order to sign a release of liability and approve of us providing a Covid test. The roles available in the production of In the Heights (click here to read about the characters) are for ages 18 to 70+. It may be possible to have someone younger in the ensemble who has extraordinary ability with parental approval IF they are homeschooled. This said, all ages are welcome to come to the dance and vocal workshops and may participate in promotional events and receive a free pair of preview tickets if they attend all.

Q: Why is Rubicon offering free community workshops?

A: We are searching for local talent (especially within our Latinx community) before auditions of In the Heights in order to discover and support artists from our region who may not have had the opportunity to share their gifts with us previously. The large cast size and broad age range offers us an opportunity to hire more artists than is typical from our shows. Participating in the workshops is an opportunity to learn the audition routines, work on a song with a coach in order to do advance preparation for the auditions themselves. This will allow us to get to know you earlier in the process.

Q: What are the other reasons?

A: Community outreach is a big reason. We love the joyous, exuberant nature of the music and dance in In the Heights and believe that those who participate in the workshops will be as excited as we are about the production! Those who decide not to audition will still have fun, get some great exercise, meet new people, and develop their skills.

Q: When are the workshops?

A: From June 22-July 23 on Wednesdays (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and Saturdays (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Q: Do I have to attend every workshop? Can I audition if I don’t participate in the workshops?

A: The workshops will start with basic steps and build layer by layer each section, so we encourage you to come to as many workshop sessions as you can. However, you are free to attend as many or as few of the sessions as you like.

If you attend all workshops (whether or not you choose to audition and whether or not you are cast), you will receive a voucher for 2 free tickets to a preview. You will also be invited to participate in promotional events for In the Heights.

You are absolutely welcome to audition if you don’t participate in the workshops.

Q: Do I need to be vaccinated or wear masks for the workshops?

A: Masks are strongly recommended for the workshops and everyone who attends will need to show proof of a negative Covid test once a week. Free tests from the government can be obtained at https://www.covid.gov/tests. If you do not have access or cannot obtain a test, please let us know and one will be provided for you. For each workshop, we will take your temperature and ask you to confirm that you have no symptoms. Please note that if you audition for and are cast in the union production of In the Heights, according to current rules you will need to show proof of vaccination, wear masks during rehearsals and be tested 2-3 times a week.

Q: What is the structure of the workshops?

A:  The workshops will have multiple aspects: group dance instruction, group vocal warm-ups and exercises, and individual vocal coaching. Some workshops will focus on either dance or vocals, depending on what the instructors feel would most benefit the group. We may set up particular sign-ups for the individual coaching and will keep updating our website.

Q: Who is teaching the workshops?

A: The dance component will be taught by the Dance Captain for In the Heights Bryan Menjivar. Here is Bryan’s bio.

Q: What is special about this production of “In the Heights”?

A:  In the Heights was a ground-breaking production in its integration of multiple musical styles, its message and its materials. It foretold the promise that would become Hamilton. Our production will include elements of community and educational outreach including intensive work in schools by way of assembly presentations, and small group instructions and workshops with students in classrooms.

Q:  Can you tell me more about the audition for “In the Heights”?

A: Yes, click here to read the casting notice.

We will be holding auditions in both Ventura and Los Angeles.

If you are unable to attend in person for initial submissions, you can send in a video audition (details on the casting notice). For callbacks, you may be required to meet in person.

Q: What is the compensation offered if I audition after the workshops and am cast in the show?

A: Click here to read about the pay levels.

Q: How can I find out what roles are available?

A: Click here to read more about the roles.

Q: Can I read the whole script and/or hear or see the music?

A: Click here for a .pdf to the script. The music may be purchased online (we recommend listening to the Broadway production as there are variations between the stage version and the film). Watching the recent film can give you a sense of the characters and the style of the show.

Q: Can I join Actors Equity if I am cast?

A: If you are not a member of Actors Equity Association you may sign up for the Equity Membership Candidacy program, which enables you to earn weeks toward joining the union at a later time.