Auditions
Selected cast members will participate in the recording of the original cast album in September 2026, followed by rehearsals beginning in November and performances in December.
A new holiday musical with book and lyrics by Barbara Bellman & Barry Mann, music by Emiliano Messiez, and based on the children’s book Miri and Her Drum Set by Dr. Barry Mann.
Directed by Marley Shropshire
Casting note
Cousins celebrates friendship, family, and shared humanity through the experiences of Jewish and Muslim families during the holiday season.
We strongly encourage Jewish performers and performers of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) heritage to audition. Performers of all backgrounds are welcome and will be considered for all roles.
Character breakdown
Child actor, ages 7–15, to portray age 5
A bright, precocious, curious little girl who loves music and dreams of becoming a drummer. She adores her Sabi and approaches the world with wonder, joy, and boundless imagination.
Vocal Range: A3–D5
Similar to the role of Matilda
Male, early 70s
Miri’s beloved grandfather. Warm, gentle, and full of humor. A gifted accordion player visiting from Jerusalem whose growing forgetfulness becomes an important part of the story.
Vocal Range: Warm Baritone, A2–F4
Female, mid-40s
A devoted mother and homemaker. Loving, capable, and resilient, though often overwhelmed by the responsibilities of preparing for Hanukkah and caring for her family.
Vocal Range: Belty Mezzo, G3–E5
Female, to portray age 15–16
Quiet, confident, compassionate, and mature beyond her years. A thoughtful teenager whose unexpected friendship with Miri becomes central to the story.
Vocal Range: Lyrical Soprano, C4–A5
Male, late teens to early 20s
Charismatic, energetic, and quick-witted with a warm heart. May also portray Clerk 1 and/or Santa.
Vocal Range: Contemporary Musical Theatre Tenor, C3–B♭4
Male, late teens to early 20s
Grounded, personable, and kind with an easy sense of humor. May also portray Clerk 2 and/or Santa.
Vocal Range: Contemporary Musical Theatre Baritone, A2–G4
Vocal style
Seeking exceptional actor-singers with strong storytelling ability. Singing should reflect a contemporary musical theatre, pop, and folk-inspired style with emotional authenticity, excellent musicianship, and the ability to balance humor, heart, and intimacy.
Audition preparation
Please prepare approximately 32 bars, or 60–90 seconds, of a contemporary musical theatre selection that showcases your voice and storytelling ability.
An accompanist will be provided. Please do not bring tracks or sing a cappella.
Please bring a headshot and résumé.
Actors may also be asked to read from the script.
Book an audition appointment ↗Development & production schedule
Compensation: Paid. Non-Union.
Equity performers may audition; any Equity engagement would be subject to an appropriate Equity agreement.
Book an audition appointment ↗Questions about auditions? Contact Marley Shropshire at marleyhshropshire@gmail.com.