RENT

Open Auditions
Audition dates and location:
Wed, 3rd June 2026, 18:30-22:00
Thu, 4th June 2026, 18:30-22:00
Fri, 5th June 2026, 18:30-22:00
Mon, 8th June 2026, 18:30-22:00
Tue, 9th June 2026, 18:30-22:00
Sat, 13th June 2026, 13:00-17:00 (callbacks, if required, and backup date)
Self-tape submission deadline:
Sat, 13th June 2026, 22:00
Note: This is a purely amateur, non-paid production. All positions are voluntary.
Im Holzerhurd 60
Im Holzerhurd 60, 8046 Zürich, Switzerland
SYNOPSIS
RENT is the iconic, Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical by Jonathan Larson that captures the lives of a diverse group of young artists struggling to survive and create in New York City’s East Village. Set against the backdrop of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, this modern adaptation of Puccini’s La Bohème is a powerful celebration of friendship, community, and the resilience of the human spirit. Featuring a legendary soundtrack and unforgettable anthems, RENT challenges us to face adversity while learning to measure our lives in love. Join us for our 30th-anniversary production, an immersive experience that redefines this classic story for a new generation.
CHARACTERS
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We are looking for a diverse cast of performers of all experience levels and backgrounds.
Mandatory Reading: Before signing up, you must read the full Audition Information Pack in detail to ensure you are fully prepared and understand all rehearsal expectations.
Please note the following requirements for your audition:
Preparation: Auditionees must prepare the specific song cut(s) listed for their chosen role(s) using the provided official backing tracks. You must also select and prepare one of our three designated monologues.
Acting Through Song: We prioritise storytelling and emotional connection. Please focus on "acting through" your song rather than just vocal performance.
Memorisation: You are not expected to memorise your audition materials. We encourage you to use scripts and sheet music during your audition so you can focus entirely on characterisation.
Self-Tapes: Digital submissions are welcome and must be received by Saturday June 13th at 22:00. Please submit separate files for each song and monologue.
Other Productions: Auditioning for (or the outcome of) ZEST’s other productions has no impact on RENT casting decisions. If cast in more than one production, the creative teams will try to avoid scheduling clashes.
To prepare effectively, please ensure you download the following materials from the audition meterials section, at the bottom of this page:
The Sheet Music: Download the sheet music cuts for the song(s) designated for your chosen character(s).
The Backing Tracks: Download the corresponding instrumental backing tracks for your character's audition songs (please note that a cappella or self-accompanied auditions are not permitted).
The Monologues: Download the monologue pages and select one of the three options (Option A, B, or C) to perform. You are fully free to choose whichever monologue appeals to you most, regardless of the role(s) you are targeting.
AUDITION MATERIALS
Please refer to the Auditions page for further general information regarding the audition process. Please submit a digital audition form or email auditions@thezest.ch to confirm your attendance. You must either complete a digital audition form or bring a printed audition form with you as well as bring a copy of the scene(s) you will be auditioning with as copies will not be available on site. For specific questions about the play, please contact auditions@thezest.ch.
