A Strange Loop
by Ground Floor Theatre

Aug. 26

Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical, Michael R. Jackson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning, blisteringly funny masterwork exposes the heart and soul of a young artist grappling with desires, identity and instincts he both loves and loathes. Hell-bent on breaking free of his own self-perception, Usher wrestles with the thoughts in his head, brought to life on stage by a hilarious, straight-shooting ensemble. Bold and heartfelt in its truth-telling, A Strange Loop is the big, Black and queer-ass Great American Musical for all!

 

Ground Floor Theatre Announces Auditions for

A Strange Loop by Michael R. Jackson

August 26th – 6:30 – 9:30pm

Ground Floor Theatre (GFT) is holding auditions for our next production, A Strange Loop written by Michael R. Jackson.

A Strange Loop is directed by Jeremy Rashad Brown and Musical Director Deonté Warren.

GFT is seeking actors to fill all roles.

Auditions will be held at Ground Floor Theatre (979 Springdale Rd at Airport) on August 26th  2026, 6:30 – 9:30 pm with a possible callback (if needed) the next week. All auditioners should arrive at 6:30 pm and plan to stay to 9:30 pm.  Auditions will consist of a 32-bar or one minute cutting of your choosing.  An accompanist will be provided. (you should bring sheet music). 

Please bring a physical picture and resume to the auditions, if you are unable, send me an electronic version and I will print it for you.

Please send an email to lisa@groundfloortheatre to join our auditions.

All roles will be paid an honorarium of $1,100.00

Ground Floor Theatre is committed to inclusivity and as such, unless specifically called for in the script, we cast without consideration to ability, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, size, or shape.

Character Breakdowns

 

USHER Black. Male-presenting. Late 20s to mid 30s. Vocal Range: High Tenor, E♭3–D5. A queer, aspiring musical theatre writer working as an usher at The Lion King. Intelligent, funny, vulnerable, self-aware, and often at war with himself. Must possess exceptional acting skills, emotional range, and vocal stamina. Strong contemporary musical theatre voice with excellent storytelling ability. Present for nearly the entire show.

 

THE THOUGHTS (6 Roles) The Thoughts are extensions of Usher's consciousness. They become everyone in his life: family members, lovers, co-workers, strangers, historical figures, inner critics, and manifestations of anxiety, desire, shame, and joy. All Thoughts require exceptional comedic timing, strong ensemble instincts, emotional flexibility, and the ability to transform rapidly between characters.

 

THOUGHT 1 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: Mezzo-Soprano/High Voice, C3–G5. May portray Usher's Mother, authority figures, ensemble roles, and aspects of Usher's inner critic. Warmth, humor, and emotional depth.

 

THOUGHT 2 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: Tenor/Flexible High Voice, C3–D♭5. May portray Usher's Father, coworkers, authority figures, and ensemble roles. Strong dramatic presence with comedic versatility.

 

THOUGHT 3 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: High Tenor, C3–D5. Transforms among lovers, church members, coworkers, ensemble characters, and facets of Usher's psyche. Athletic physical storytelling is a plus.

 

THOUGHT 4 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: Bari-Tenor/Flexible Voice, G2–A4. Quick-witted character actor capable of broad comedy and genuine pathos. Plays multiple supporting roles while functioning as part of Usher's internal dialogue.

 

THOUGHT 5 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: Bass/Low Voice, E2–E4. Excellent singer with strong harmony skills. Portrays multiple characters including romantic interests, family members, and abstract manifestations of thought.

 

THOUGHT 6 Any gender. Black performer preferred. Vocal Range: Bass or Bass-Baritone/Low Voice, E2–E4. Highly adaptable performer comfortable with rapid character shifts, physical comedy, and emotionally grounded dramatic work

 

Performances will be December 3-19, 2026, with rehearsals beginning in mid-October and are typically 4 weekday evenings and one weekend day (there will be a break for Thanksgiving). Exact rehearsal schedule will be determined by actor availability.