Cast members perform in Oakton College's 2025 production of Indecent at the Des Plaines campus. Auditions for Oakton's 2026 season begin July 13 and continue in September.
Aspiring performers of all experience levels are invited to audition for upcoming productions.
Des Plaines, Ill. (July 13, 2026) — Whether portraying real-life stories of courage and resilience or performing alongside some of the area’s most talented pianists in an internationally recognized ensemble, aspiring performers have three unique opportunities to audition for Oakton College’s upcoming performing arts productions.
"Oakton's Performing Arts program is built on the idea that exceptional artistic opportunities should be accessible to everyone," said Bob Gynn, chair and distinguished professor of Speech, Theater and Performing Arts Center at Oakton. “Whether you're an experienced performer or looking for a new creative challenge, these auditions offer a chance to learn, collaborate and be part of a welcoming artistic community."
Auditions in July
Performing Tribute 9/11: Ordinary People, Remarkable Stories: A Staged Reading
Written by Donna Kaz and directed by Mary Ringstad-Gagliano, Oakton’s professor of Speech and Theater, the production tells the true stories of 10 individuals whose lives were directly affected by the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Their experiences include those of family members who lost loved ones, survivors, first responders, rescue workers and volunteers. Their firsthand accounts are woven together into a moving theatrical presentation that explores courage, resilience and hope.
Auditions: July 13-14
Time: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Footlik Theater, Des Plaines campus, 1600 E. Golf Road
No appointment required
Performance dates: Sept. 10 at 12:30 p.m., Sept. 11-12 at 6 p.m. and Sept. 13 at 2 p.m.
Prepare a contemporary one- to two-minute monologue, or come ready to read from the script. Memorization is not required.
Directed by Glenna Sprague, Oakton’s coordinator and professor of Music, the acclaimed ensemble has performed at prestigious venues and conferences throughout the U.S. and internationally, including the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, the College Music Society International Conference in Vienna, Chicago's Civic Opera House, Navy Pier and numerous Music Teachers National Association conferences. The ensemble performs a diverse repertoire spanning classical, ragtime, jazz and popular music.
Auditions: Sept. 15-17
Location: Des Plaines campus or online
Performance date: April 25, 3 p.m.
For more information, to schedule an audition or inquire about alternative audition dates, contact Sprague at 847.635.1905 or gsprague@oakton.edu.
Play On Student Playwriting Festival
Six original one-act plays and storytelling monologues — written by community college students from across the Midwest and directed by Oakton students and alumni — showcase bold voices, unexpected humor and thought-provoking perspectives. From heartfelt personal reflections to imaginative works of fiction, each piece offers a unique window into the experiences and creativity of emerging playwrights. Together, the productions celebrate the power of storytelling and the next generation of theatrical talent.
Auditions: Sept. 28-29, 6-9 p.m.
Location: Studio One Theatre, Des Plaines campus
No appointments necessary.
Performance dates: Nov. 20- 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 22 at 2 p.m.
Prepare a contemporary one- to two-minute monologue, or come ready to read from the script. Memorization is not required.
