Young People’s Theatre of Chicago Announces Auditions for “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”

Young People’s Theatre of Chicago is now accepting audition submissions for the first production of its 2026–27 season, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.

This non-equity paid opportunity is open to strong actors of all genders, sizes, and ethnicities who are interested in performing or understudying the roles of Boy and Mouse.

About the Show

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie is a fast-paced, family-friendly comedy full of chaos, laughter, and playful surprises. Based on the beloved books by Laura Joffe Numeroff and adapted for the stage by Jody Davidson, the show follows what happens when one simple cookie leads to a hilarious chain reaction of messes, mishaps, and mouse-sized mischief.

The production will launch Young People’s Theatre of Chicago’s 5th Anniversary Season and promises a fun theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

Talent Application

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Production Details

🍪 Show: If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
🎭 Company: Young People’s Theatre of Chicago
📍 Location: Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL
📅 Performance Dates: September 26 – October 25, 2026
✍️ Stage Adaptation: Jody Davidson
📚 Based on the books by: Laura Joffe Numeroff
🎬 Director: Artistic Director Randy White
💼 Union Status: Non-Equity
💰 Pay: Yes

Roles Available

Young People’s Theatre of Chicago is seeking Non-AEA actors to perform and understudy the roles of:

✨ Boy
✨ Mouse

The company is especially interested in actors with experience in:

✨ Physical comedy
✨ Clown work
✨ Circus skills
✨ High-energy movement-based performance

Actors should be comfortable with playful storytelling, broad physicality, and the energetic style needed for theatre created for young audiences and families.

Compensation

Selected performers will be paid for rehearsals, tech, and performances.

💰 Rehearsals & Tech: $300 per week
💰 Performance Rate: $40 per performance

Schedule and Time Commitment

Actors should note that rehearsals, tech, and performances will take place during daytime hours.

📅 Rehearsals: Monday, August 31 – Friday, September 18
📅 Tech: Sunday, September 20 – Friday, September 25
📅 Performances: Saturday, September 26 – Sunday, October 25

All rehearsals and performances will take place at:

📍 Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL

How to Submit

Actors interested in being considered should submit audition sides for either Boy or Mouse through the official submission form.

📌 Submission Deadline: Friday, June 26 at 5:00 PM

Actors may also include examples or reels showcasing physical comedy, circus, clown, or similar performance work.

For questions, contact:

📧 casting@yptchi.org

Final Thoughts

This is a wonderful opportunity for Chicago-based performers who enjoy family theatre, physical comedy, and high-energy storytelling. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie is a playful and imaginative production that gives actors the chance to bring a beloved children’s book to life on stage.

With paid rehearsals, paid performances, and a focus on expressive physical performance, this audition is a strong fit for actors who love comedy, movement, and connecting with young audiences.