Amahl and The Night Visitors
Synopsis
On a cold winter night, a poor shepherd boy named Amahl and his mother struggle to survive in their small home. Amahl, who walks with a crutch, is imaginative and often tells tall tales, which his weary mother sometimes dismisses.
One evening, Amahl excitedly tells his mother that he has seen a brilliant star in the sky, larger than any other. Soon after, there is a knock at the door. Three kings, following that very star, ask for shelter as they journey to bring gifts to a newborn child.
Though hesitant at first, Amahl’s mother welcomes them. As the kings rest, Amahl befriends them especially the playful King Kaspar and listens in wonder to their stories. Later, shepherds arrive bringing food and celebrating with dance.
During the night, tempted by desperation, Amahl’s mother attempts to steal some of the kings’ gold to help her child. She is caught, but the kings respond with compassion, explaining that the child they seek will bring a greater kind of wealth to the world.
Moved by their kindness, Amahl offers his only possession, his crutch, as a gift for the child. In that moment of selfless generosity, a miracle occurs. To find out what that miracle is, make sure to attend this wonderful performance.
Characters/Parts
Amahl
A young shepherd boy with a physical disability, Amahl is imaginative, curious, and full of life. His storytelling and innocence bring warmth and humor, while his final act of generosity reveals deep compassion and courage.
The Mother
Amahl’s mother is loving but burdened by poverty and worry. Fiercely protective of her son, she struggles between desperation and morality, ultimately finding redemption through the kings’ kindness.
King Melchior
The eldest and most authoritative of the three kings, Melchior is wise, calm, and deeply spiritual. He provides guidance and perspective throughout their journey.
King Kaspar
A lively and eccentric king, Kaspar brings humor and charm to the story. Playful and generous, he forms a special bond with Amahl and lightens the tone of the journey.
King Balthazar
A warm and grounded presence, Balthazar serves as a mediator among the kings. His kindness and sincerity help guide moments of tension toward understanding and compassion.
The Page
The Page is the kings’ attendant, often portrayed through movement or dance. This role adds visual storytelling and supports the regal presence of the kings.
Shepherds / Ensemble
The shepherds represent the surrounding community, bringing energy, music, and celebration to the story. Through song and dance, they highlight themes of generosity, joy, and shared humanity.
Audition Guide
Amahl
Voice Type: Boy Soprano (or light Lyric Soprano “pants role”)
Range: approx. A3 – F5/G5
Casting Notes:
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Must be a convincing child actor (physically and dramatically)
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Requires excellent diction and natural acting ability
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Vocal tone should be pure, not overly operatic
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Can play a small reed or flute
Audition Pathway:
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32 bars of a simple art song or folk-style piece
The Mother
Voice Type: Mezzo-Soprano (Lyric to Dramatic)
Range: approx. G3 – E5/F5
Casting Notes:
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Strong dramatic presence
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Must balance warmth and desperation
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Carries the emotional core of the opera
Audition Pathway:
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Lyric mezzo repertoire (Mozart, Menotti, or similar)
King Melchior
Voice Type: Bass
Range: approx. F2 – E4
Casting Notes:
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Noble, calm, authoritative presence
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Often portrayed as older and wise
Audition Pathway:
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Legato bass aria (Mozart, Handel, oratorio)
King Kaspar
Voice Type: Tenor
Range: approx. B2 – G4/A4
Casting Notes:
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Comic timing is essential
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Playful, eccentric, steals many moments
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Needs strong character acting
Audition Pathway:
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Light/comic tenor repertoire (Britten, Donizetti, Rossini, Mozart)
King Balthazar
Voice Type: Baritone
Range: approx. G2 – F4
Casting Notes:
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Warm, grounded, dignified presence
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Often acts as a mediator between kings
Audition Pathway:
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Lyric baritone repertoire (Mozart, Ralph Von Williams, Menotti, Verdi, Handel)
The Page
Voice Type: Non-singing (or minimal singing)
Range: N/A
Casting Notes:
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Requires movement/dance ability
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Strong stage presence and responsiveness
Audition Pathway:
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Movement/dance
Shepherds (SATB Ensemble or Flexible Voices)
Voice Type: Mixed (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass)
Range: Flexible depending on arrangement
Casting Notes:
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Can be students, community singers, or dancers
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Often include movement and folk-style dance
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Important for ensemble energy and storytelling
Audition Pathway:
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32 bars of any song (classical, musical theatre, or folk)
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Look for:
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Ensemble awareness
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Rhythmic ability
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Stage presence
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General Audition Structure
For Principals:
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(Entire song) Art Song or Aria
For Youth/Community (Amahl & Shepherds):
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32 bars to a minute
Rehearsal Dates
