The Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) is casting for its 2026 summer season, seeking male performers for ensemble roles in productions of Oklahoma! and Jesus Christ Superstar. The opportunity offers artists a chance to live and work in the unique setting of Ely, Minnesota, on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This call for talent underscores the NLAA’s commitment to bringing professional musical theatre to a rural community and leveraging the natural beauty of the region as a backdrop for compelling storytelling.
The NLAA, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering arts and culture in northern Minnesota, has been presenting theatrical productions for several years. Their “Broadway in the Boundary Waters” initiative aims to attract high-caliber performers and create a vibrant summer arts experience for both artists and audiences. Ely, Minnesota, a town of roughly 3,400 residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau , is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is increasingly recognized for its growing arts scene.
Seeking Versatile Performers
The NLAA is specifically looking for strong actor-singer-dancers to fill male ensemble tracks in both Oklahoma! and Jesus Christ Superstar. Performers should be between the ages of 20 and 40, and represent any ethnicity. The organization emphasizes the need for versatility, a strong stage presence, and a demonstrated ability to tell stories through performance. Successful candidates will be expected to contribute to the overall world-building, movement, and emotional depth of both productions. Collaboration and physical expressiveness are key qualities the NLAA is seeking in potential ensemble members.
Contract Details and Compensation
The NLAA is offering a comprehensive contract package for the summer season, which runs from May 26, 2026, to July 26, 2026. Performers will receive housing for the duration of the contract, as well as a membership to a local gym. Transportation is also included, with airport pickup and drop-off provided from the nearest regional airport. The weekly salary for ensemble performers ranges from $350.00 to $400.00, providing a competitive rate for a summer stock position.
Life in Ely and the Boundary Waters
The opportunity to perform with Broadway in the Boundary Waters extends beyond the stage. Ely, Minnesota, offers a unique lifestyle centered around the outdoors. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a million-acre wilderness area bordering Canada, provides opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. The town itself boasts a close-knit community and a growing number of local businesses and cultural events. The NLAA emphasizes that this is a chance to create meaningful work in a distinctive destination, fostering both artistic growth and a connection to the natural world.
How to Apply
Interested performers are asked to submit their applications electronically. The submission package should include a current resume, a performance reel showcasing vocal and acting abilities, and a separate dance reel demonstrating technical skills and versatility. All submissions should be sent with the subject line “BIBW Ensemble.” The NLAA did not specify a deadline for submissions, but interested applicants are encouraged to apply promptly to ensure consideration.
The NLAA’s commitment to providing housing, gym access, and transportation aims to reduce the financial burden on performers, allowing them to focus on their craft. This is a common practice in regional and summer stock theatre, where attracting talent often requires offering more than just a salary. The combination of professional opportunities and a unique living environment makes this a particularly appealing option for emerging and established performers alike.
The productions of Oklahoma! and Jesus Christ Superstar represent a diverse range of musical theatre styles. Oklahoma!, a classic American musical, is known for its iconic songs and energetic choreography, while Jesus Christ Superstar is a rock opera that offers a dramatic and emotionally charged retelling of the final weeks of Jesus’ life. Performing in both productions will require performers to demonstrate a broad skillset and adaptability.
The NLAA’s “Broadway in the Boundary Waters” program is a testament to the power of the arts to revitalize rural communities and attract visitors. By bringing high-quality theatrical productions to Ely, Minnesota, the organization is not only providing opportunities for artists but also contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the region. The next step for interested performers is to prepare and submit their application materials, with the NLAA reviewing submissions and scheduling auditions in the coming months.
For those seeking a summer immersed in both artistic creation and the natural beauty of northern Minnesota, this opportunity with the Northern Lakes Arts Association presents a compelling option. We encourage interested performers to learn more and submit their applications. Share this article with anyone you know who might be a good fit for this exciting summer season!
