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Joshua’s Boots
An Opera for Young People by Adolphus Hailstork and Susan Kander

October 21 - 24, 2026

A Co-Production by Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and the Center of Creative Arts

Joshua’s Boots tells the story of a Black teenager who flees his home 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. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

 

Auditions
Wednesday, March 25, 4–8 p.m.
Saturday, March 28, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
COCA – Lefton Community Room

Sign up for auditions

 

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.

 

Rehearsals begin September 14, 2026, and will primarily take place from 4-7 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., 2–5 p.m. on Saturdays. Performances are October 21–24, 2026.

 

Questions? Contact our Education Department.

Event information

School Performances
October 21 & 22

Public Performances
October 23, 7 p.m. & October 24, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Location:
Catherine Berges Theater at COCA

 

Tickets coming soon!

Leadership support comes from the Fred M. Saigh Endowment at Opera Theatre. 

Student dress rehearsals are underwritten in part by the Saigh Foundation.