Forest Theater Is Here: Auditions Open for “Beware the Jabberwock” (Grades 4–12)
We’re thrilled to share that The Forest School is officially launching our first-ever theater production — and we’re inviting learners (and families) to be part of it from the very beginning.
Here are the details for our first production: “Beware the Jabberwock” — a playful, Theater for Young Audiences performance set in the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland.
Whether your child loves being on stage, wants to learn the behind-the-scenes magic, or is simply curious and ready to try something new… there’s a place for them here.
We’re grateful to have Lana and Ben Toler leading this program with deep experience in educational theater. Their focus is not just putting on a show — but building a joyful, high-quality ensemble where learners grow in:
confidence and communication
empathy and teamwork
responsibility and commitment
creative expression and craft
Theater is a team sport — and learners will experience what it means to build something meaningful together.
About the Production: “Beware the Jabberwock”
“Beware the Jabberwock” is a 40–45 minute Theater for Young Audiences play, designed to be fun, imaginative, and engaging for a live audience.
Planned performances: 4 total showings during Exhibition Week (performed shortly after exhibitions)
Cast size goal: ~16 actors
Tech + design goal: 5–10 learners supporting backstage + set/props/costumes
This production will be designed with a whimsical, immersive feel, using lighting and creative set dressing to bring the story to life without needing an elaborate build.
Auditions + Tech Sign-Ups (Grades 4–12)
We are welcoming participation from Forest learners and the wider community, and we’re aiming for ~25 total participants to build a full ensemble and crew.
Auditions / Tech Sign-Up Deadline: February 2
Audition Day: Monday, February 2
Callbacks (if needed): Wednesday, February 4
Table Read (full cast): Monday, February 9
Audition prep:
All auditioning learners should prepare and memorize a 1-minute monologue or excerpt.
Tech roles:
Learners can also sign up for backstage and production roles (or do both!). We need support with:
backstage crew + stage management
props + set dressing
costumes + hair/makeup support
lighting/sound support
production organization + show flow
If your learner is interested in theater but unsure about performing, tech is an amazing entry point.
Rehearsal Schedule
Rehearsals will run twice per week:
Mondays + Wednesdays | 3:30–6:00 PM
Beginning after the table read (with a more intensive schedule leading into show week)
Because theater is a team effort, consistent attendance matters — and we also want families to feel supported. If conflicts arise, we simply ask that learners communicate early and clearly so the team can plan well.
If your learner feels nervous about a group-style audition format, please reach out — we’re happy to help them feel comfortable and set up for success.
Interested in auditioning?
Sign up for auditions OR a tech role by February 2
If auditioning, memorize a 1-minute monologue
Invite a friend to help us reach our target participant number (Forest + non-Forest learners welcome!)
Watch for a follow-up email with detailed audition logistics + the finalized budget
We’re so excited to build a strong theater culture at Forest — one where learners can stretch themselves, create boldly, and experience the joy of performing (and producing!) something real.
Let’s make something unforgettable together.