Auditions

Based on the novel by Victor Hugo and songs from the Disney film by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a sweeping and powerful musical set in the shadow of the great cathedral. Through soaring choral music and deeply human storytelling, the show explores themes of justice, compassion, obsession, and belonging. As faith, fear, and love collide, individuals must confront the reflections of their own hearts and discover how courage, empathy, and conviction can ignite change within themselves and the world around them. An impactful production offering powerhouse vocal, deep character arcs, and an ensemble that forms the living heartbeat of Notre Dame.

Auditions will take place at Leading Edge Academy Maricopa over three days, Dance Auditions (March 23rd @ 7pm) and Vocal Auditions (March 24th or 25th @ 7pm). Reminders and additional travel information will be sent to those who signed up prior to auditions. Actors will be asked for 32 bars from two differing styles of musical that will showcase their vocal skills and versatility. Callbacks will occur March 26th at 7pm, and actors will be notified the evening before. Please sign up for auditions here.

Important Casting Notes

Tone & Content Note

The Hunchback of Notre Dame explores complex themes including prejudice, religious authority, obsession, social injustice, and the treatment of marginalized communities. While the production emphasizes compassion, humanity, and the power of individuals to ignite change within themselves and others, the material includes emotionally intense moments. Actors should be prepared to approach the story with sensitivity, maturity, and respect for its themes.

Casting & Representation

The Hunchback of Notre Dame includes characters connected to the Romani (Roma) community, a diverse, transnational diaspora with no single defining appearance. Because of this, roles such as Esmeralda and Clopin will not be cast based on preconceived notions of ethnicity or “look.” We are casting based on storytelling, musicianship, movement, vocal ability, and character authenticity.

Maricopa Community Theatre welcomes performers of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, body types, ages, and abilities to audition. We especially encourage Romani/Roma artists and artists from historically marginalized communities to audition.

We recognize that Roma/Romani is the preferred modern terminology. Historical language appearing in the script reflects the period of the story and will be handled thoughtfully within the production.

Character Breakdown

Quasimodo (Tenor / Baritenor)
The kindhearted bell-ringer of Notre Dame who has spent his life hidden within the cathedral walls. Though physically distinctive and socially isolated, Quasimodo possesses a luminous spirit, deep compassion, and a longing to experience the world. Requires a strong, expressive singer capable of emotional vulnerability and powerful high notes.

Esmeralda (Mezzo-Soprano / Soprano mix)
A courageous and compassionate outsider who challenges injustice and prejudice wherever she encounters it. Fiercely empathetic and strong-willed, Esmeralda becomes a moral catalyst for those around her. Requires a dynamic vocalist with warmth, power, and confident movement.

Claude Frollo (Baritone / Bass)
The powerful archdeacon whose rigid devotion and authority mask a deep internal struggle between faith, control, and obsession. A complex and imposing antagonist who believes his actions are justified. Requires a commanding vocalist with strong low range and dramatic intensity.

Phoebus de Martin (Baritenor)
A confident and charismatic soldier who gradually transforms from loyal officer to compassionate ally. Brave, charming, and morally grounded, Phoebus provides both warmth and heroism in the story. Requires a lyrical voice with strong presence and clear storytelling.

Clopin Trouillefou (Character Tenor / Baritenor)
The clever and energetic leader of the Court of Miracles who serves as narrator and guide through the story. Playful, theatrical, and rhythmically driven, Clopin thrives on quick wit, movement, and storytelling flair. Requires strong rhythmic delivery and confident character singing.

Congregation / Choir & Ensemble (SATB)
The ensemble serves as the living voice of Notre Dame (monks, townspeople, and the Court of Miracles) shaping the story through powerful choral music and movement. Strong singers with the ability to blend in rich harmonies and contribute to dynamic storytelling are essential.