COCA, in partnership with Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, is casting performers, ages 14–18, for Joshua’s Boots, an opera by composer Adolphus Hailstork that tells the story of a Black teenager who flees his home barefoot to find new opportunity in the American West in 1878. Joshua overcomes prejudice and obstacles to become a cowboy, establishing a new life with his own land, his own name, and his own brand. 

COCA and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis are collaborating to bring this full-scale, 55-minute family opera to the stage. Joshua’s Boots will feature three professional opera performers, including principal and chorus roles for students. 

Auditions 

WED, MAR 25 | 4:00–8:00PM 

SAT, MAR 28 | 9:00AM–12:00PM 

Register to Audition

Interested students should sign up for a five-minute audition slot and prepare 32 bars of a song. Additionally, auditioners should prepare excerpts from the opera to be provided in advance of the audition. Please bring a copy of your headshot and resume to the audition as well as a list of conflicts during September 14–October 21, 2026. 

Pre-Professional Division students interested in being cast are eligible to go straight to callbacks. Contact Rachel Schneider to register for callbacks. 

Rehearsals begin September 14, 2026, and will primarily occur 4:00–7:00PM weekdays and 10:00AM–1:00PM, 2:00–5:00PM Saturdays. Performances are October 21–24, 2026.