This weekend will mark the final audition to join the cast of this year’s production of Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals.
Director Tony DeVault and Assistant Director C. Keith Young will conduct open auditions on Saturday, March 4, at 5 p.m. inside the Visitor’s Center at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park.
Those trying out for a part will have the opportunity to read for both male and female settler roles and Cherokee roles as well, said Park Manager Jennifer Bauer.
“If folks don’t want to have a speaking part they can still join the cast,” Bauer said. “We always need additional actors for what they call ‘walk on’ roles.”
“A lot of people like to do that,” Bauer said of the non-speaking roles for the drama. “A lot of folks who have heritage with the Overmountain Men like to put on those clothes and walk where they actually mustered.”
This year, the Friends of Sycamore Shoals group, which produces Liberty! each year selected to have two audition dates. The first auditions were held on Sunday, Feb. 26, at the park.
“It went really well,” Bauer said of the first auditions. “We had a pretty good crowd. We had a lot of interest.”
However, those wishing to be a part of the production shouldn’t be discouraged that others have already auditioned, Bauer said.
“We haven’t assigned any roles yet,” she said. “We want everyone to have the opportunity to try out if they want to.”
In addition to performing roles, Bauer said the production is also looking for individuals interested in helping perform backstage functions, working with lighting and sound, and with costuming.
Bauer encourages anyone who would like to take part in the drama — whether it be through performing or assisting backstage — to attend the audition in order to get acquainted with the directing team and others involved in the production.

This year’s drama will feature a new script according to Bauer. While the script received some updates and changes each year, Bauer said this year significant changes have been made and a considerable portion of the script was rewritten.
Performance dates for this year’s production are set for the last three weekends in July — Thursdays through Saturdays, July 13 – 15, 20 – 22, and 27 – 29; with shows beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Bauer said additional information regarding rehearsals and production details will be available at the audition.
Those seeking more information about the production, or opportunities to get involved, are invited to contact Park Manager Jennifer Bauer by e-mail at jennifer.bauer@tn.gov or by calling Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area at 423-543-5808.