The Muni is a unique venue that draws performers from throughout central Illinois.

“There are so many opportunities for young people,” says Muni president Greg Donathan, who is happy to see so many kids interested in theater. Typically, between 150 and 200 children audition each year. “It’s hard to get a part in a Muni show. It’s pretty competitive,” he explained.

Prior to auditions, the Muni holds an audition workshop. “It’s a training opportunity for kids,” he says, so kids can feel better about auditioning.

For those who don’t get cast, the Muni offers them a chance to rehearse and perform their own show, which Donathan said is a new program.

To participate, kids need to be comfortable in front of people, be able to read and understand music and be able to work cooperatively with others. Putting on a show is a team effort and requires an incredible amount of work to see the payoff, Donathan noted.

He encourages kids who haven’t found something they’re interested in yet to give theater a shot. “Try it,” he said. “You might end up doing it for the rest of your life.”