The Cross and the Switchblade
Gang fighters. Drug addicts. Teenage runaways and prostitutes. The toughest and most hopeless kids that New York’s ghettos had to offer. Until a young country preacher from the Pennsylvania hills arrived on their turf. And began preaching a street-corner message of renewal, miracles– and God’s love.
This December, witness a move of God like never before as The Cross and the Switchblade takes center stage at the historic Mark Hellinger Theatre — home to Times Square Church.
Based on David Wilkerson’s international best-selling memoir, this groundbreaking musical dramatizes the true story of a small-town Pennsylvania preacher who boldly followed God’s call into the heart of one of New York City’s most dangerous neighborhoods in the 1950s. What unfolds is an unforgettable journey of faith, courage, and miraculous transformation.
Production Information
The show will run three days a week, from December 5-21. All cast and crew must be available for all shows and tech rehearsals.
Rehearsals begin at the end of July and continue to the end of November. Rehearsals will be on Wednesday and Friday nights. Cast and crew may not be required to be at every rehearsal; a schedule will be sent upon the start of the rehearsal process.
Because of our demanding rehearsal schedule, we encourage those located in the tristate area to join us for this production. However, if you’re passionate about being part of the show and are willing to make the commute from farther out, you’re more than welcome to apply—we’d love to hear from you!
Email any questions to crossandtheswitchblade@tsc.nyc!
Audition Instructions
All auditions must be submitted by Monday, June 30th.
Part One: Performance Videos
1. Monologue
- Record a monologue from The Cross and The Switchblade.
- Note: There may not be a monologue listed for the specific character you want to audition for. Please choose a monologue that best resonates with you!
2. Song
- Record a 30–45 second clip of yourself singing a musical theatre-style song of your
choice. - Need help choosing a song? Here are some simple suggestions:
- Women: “In My Own Little Corner” from Cinderella, “It Won’t Be Long Now” from In The Heights
- Men: “Edelweiss” from The Sound of Music, “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” from Oklahoma
Part Two: Submission
1. Upload Your Videos
- Upload both videos to YouTube as unlisted (unlisted videos can only be viewed by those who have the link)
2. Submit your links
- Go to the AUDITION SUBMISSION form and paste the YouTube links where indicated.
