Central’s musical cast list went up on Wednesday, Nov. 9 without the callbacks that usually come beforehand, which sent most students into a frenzy.

 After two days of preliminary auditions for the high school musical, Les Miserables, students expected a posted callback list from the directors to consider certain students for major roles in the show. However, this was not the case.

Directors posted a sign saying that there would be no callbacks at all–instead, the cast list would be posted the following day, based on preliminary auditions. And when the list did go up, there was some student speculation.

Mrs. Jennifer Burkemper, music director of the show, said, “We were able to get a cast of students that we felt were going to make a great show, so it wasn’t about doing callbacks or not– we always have to make tough decisions, but we are happy with the outcome and excited about the show.”

Burkemper also said that a reason why they didn’t hold callbacks was because they didn’t need students to come back and read for parts, since there is no spoken acting in the show. They were able to cast based on the singing portions of the preliminary auditions.

However, a group of students, including some members of the cast, believed that not having callbacks wasn’t a good decision. They fear that the director’s judgement could end up being wrong.

Regardless, the cast members are gearing up for the start of rehearsals, and are ready to put their best foot forward, in spite of the momentary confusion.

“We had really, really strong auditions, and it’s always really cool to see all the talent we have. I think it’s going to be an amazing and fun production.” said Burkemper.

The musical is also directed by Mrs. Christine Hicks. Rehearsals start next week, but performances don’t begin until March, so students will have to wait and see the finished product and support the cast, callbacks or not, until then.