Opera Mississippi is inviting singers from all backgrounds to audition for principal roles and chorus in its upcoming production of The Christmas Gift, an original holiday opera composed by Mississippi’s own James Sclater. This world premiere will take place in December 2025 and offers a rare opportunity for local and regional talent to take part in a brand-new work rooted in the state’s rich musical tradition.
Auditions will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Arts Center of Mississippi in downtown Jackson. The auditions will take place in the large rehearsal hall on the first floor at 201 East Pascagoula Street.
The production will be performed on December 12 and 13 at Mississippi College, with rehearsals scheduled throughout the fall in the Jackson area. Opera Mississippi is seeking a wide range of performers, including professional and emerging artists, community singers, college students, and advanced high school vocalists within driving distance of Jackson. Those who previously sang in the Opera Mississippi Chorus and wish to return do not need to audition again, but are asked to contact Chorusmaster Drew Trautman at tatrautm@gmail.com to confirm their participation.
Roles available in this production include two young soprano roles (cast as boys), three priests or three nuns, a bishop, a king or queen, and congregational men such as a rich man and a writer. The chorus is open to all voice parts, and new singers are strongly encouraged to audition.
Singers auditioning for principal roles should prepare two contrasting memorized pieces, including at least one aria. These may be in any language. Chorus auditions require one or two songs in any vocal style that best showcases the singer’s ability and interests—styles may range from classical and musical theatre to gospel, pop, jazz, or country. Memorization is not required for chorus auditions.
All auditioners should bring a printed or digital copy of their sheet music for use by the provided pianist. Singers may also bring their own pianist or use recorded accompaniment with a personal playback device. A resume, headshot, and short bio (200 words or less) are required, along with a list of any Saturday or Sunday afternoon conflicts between October and December. There is no audition or pianist fee, but a cappella auditions will not be accepted. For those unable to audition in person, a video submission option is available through the application form.
Rehearsals for principal singers will take place on select weekends in October and November, excluding Sunday mornings. Additional evening rehearsals will be held during production week, December 7–11.
To register for a live audition or submit a video, visit www.operams.org/auditions. Full application details, audition requirements, and schedule information are available on the site.
For further inquiries, contact Opera Mississippi by email at info@operams.org or call 601-960-2300.