Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to audition by video or DVD?

For those who cannot attend the live preliminary audition, you may send a VHS videotape of your performance by April 1 to: Department of Music Area Offices, Young Ambassador Auditions, P.O. Box 24498, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602.

Your video should include your two musical theatre pieces, as well as a three to four minute dance sequence. Based on your taped audition, you may be asked to attend final call backs. Note: Please, do NOT send video taped selections of productions you have been in. Video tapes of actual high school or community theatre productions are often very difficult to see and hear. It makes it nearly impossible for us to accurately judge your work. Please, make a new video recording for the purposes of this audition. You are, however, welcome to use material from a production you have been involved with. Recording yourself doing songs or dances from a musical you were in is fine. Simply do not use the actual recording of a live performance.

What happens during the final callback auditions?

Everyone invited to final call backs should be prepared to perform three minutes of your best musical theater selection. You will be asked to sight-sing, sing in quartets, as well as learn several additional movement combinations. Interviews will be held later that week to discuss the Young Ambassador commitment with prospective members. A list of those selected for the 2007-2008 company will be posted within one week after final call backs.

What can I do to prepare for auditions?

Two classes at BYU are recommended to assist you in preparing for the auditions. They are: Private Voice Instruction (Music 160R), and Dance 240R. If you are not currently a BYU student, private voice lessons, dance classes, and performance experiences will all help you prepare.

How can I audition to be in the Young Ambassador show band?

The Young Ambassador Showband is comprised of keyboards, drums, bass, and guitar. Our musicians must be able to play confidently in a variety of musical styles. Reading is required: keyboard and bass players must read printed notes and chord symbols; guitarists and drummers must read rhythm charts accurately.

Auditions are held in conjunction with performer auditions. For more information and audition appointments, call Ron Simpson at (801) 422-2563 prior to April 1st.

How do I apply for the Young Ambassador technical support staff?

Interviews for the technical support staff are held in April of each year. Positions include sound engineers, lighting technicians, stage hands, stage manager, wardrobe manager, prop master, and follow-spot operators.

Appointments may be made by contacting the School of Music Area Offices at (801) 422-2563 after March 1, 2006.

How much does it cost to be in the Young Ambassador Company?

The tour itinerary determines the financial commitment each year. When the group tours internationally, students pay approximately $750 toward their tour expenses. Tour outfits and dues cost an additional $250. Other expenses may include dance shoes (about $50-$100), changing clothes, performance make-up, passports, fees, and spending money on tour.

Do I receive BYU credit for Young Ambassadors? What Class do I sigh up for?

Students receive credit for Young Ambassador classes. Depending on what your major is, these may or may not count towards graduation. The classes are offered through the School of Music and the BYU Kennedy Center.

*Performers enroll in Music 319R, an assigned dance technique class, and the required culture class.
*Showband members enroll in Music 332R and the required culture class.
*The Technical staff enrolls in THF 542R and the required culture class

What is the rehearsal schedule like?

Fall semester rehearsals are held on Tuesdays from 2-6 PM and Thursdays from 2-7 PM. Saturday rehearsals are held through the second week in November from 9AM-5PM. Winter semester rehearsals begin one hour later on Tuesdays from 3-6 PM and Thursdays 3-7 PM.

Are there any scholarships available?

The student contribution of $750 to the international tour has remained constant since 1978. As travel costs have escalated over the past 25 years, the University has covered the remaining expenses for each student. The University's portion of this ever-increasing cost is, in a sense, a scholarship for each member of the company.

What kind of songs should I sing for auditions?

You should be prepared with your two best contrasting pieces, one up-tempo and one ballad. Because the current Young Ambassador show is drawn entirely from musical theater, it is recommended that your two songs also be musical theater pieces instead of other contemporary pop or country styles.

We will be looking for your best total performance, meaning songs that best demonstrate your ability to communicate with your audience. You may incorporate appropriate gestures and movement.

Where is the company touring in 2008?

January-April: The Young Ambassadors perform on a 10 day tour on a regional basis. April-May: The Young Ambassadors leave on an extended tour of Australia. The 2007-2008 Young Ambassador Company disbands after the last day of tour.