Q: Who can audition for Men in Drag?
A: Men in Drag is an all-female a cappella group at the University of Chicago. So if you identify as female and like to sing, come audition for us! Those are literally the only prerequisites.
Q: I’ve been classically trained since I was 4 months old, I’ve sung backup for Beyonce, and I can beatbox like a champ. Should I audition for Men in Drag?
A: YES. We love you.
Q: I’ve never been in a choir or taken voice lessons or anything, but I love music and I sing in the shower a lot. Should I audition for Men in Drag?
A: YUP. Love you, too.
Q: How much of a time commitment is Men in Drag?
A: While we are the chillest and most understanding of people, in order for our art to grow and thrive we do ask that Men in Drag be your first non-academic priority on campus. That said, several of our current members are involved with other activities, including UT, dance, and other organizations. If you have doubts regarding the compatibility of a particular activity with Men in Drag, feel free to ask us and we can give you our most honest guess based on past experience.
This year, we have the following events lined up:
-Co-hosting CASA's (Contemporary A Cappella Society of America) AcappellaFest in October
-Releasing our album, celebrating our 15-Year Anniversary, and touring the Midwest in December
-Competing in the ICCA (International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella) in winter
-Hosting our 5th annual Pie-Date Auction in spring
-Quarterly concerts
-Various gigs on- and off-campus
Q: When/where are auditions, and how do I sign up?
A: Check out our Auditions Page for information pertaining to this season's auditions!
Q: Do I need to prepare something to sing? What song should I choose?
A: Part of your audition consists of a prepared solo. Please prepare a verse and a chorus of any song you want. It can be from any genre, in any language, but be sure to choose something that showcases your range and vocal abilities. Check out our current repertoire to get an idea of the type of songs we usually sing. Bonus points for interpretive dance routines! (loljustkidding) (but… actually)
Q: What else will I be asked to do in my audition?
A: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time to fill out out an audition form with information about how to contact you, your past musical experience, availability for rehearsals, etc. The audition itself will last 10 minutes. During that time, we’ll test various aspects of your musical ability. We’ll run scales to scope out your range, do some exercises to get a feel for your ear, check out your ability to sightread, and of course be enthralled by your solo voice. About five current group members will be present to listen to your audition, and we’ll all be very excited to meet you and listen to you sing, so just relax and have fun!
Q: OMG I’m so nervous. What if I mess up? WILL YOU STILL LOVE ME.
A: YES, FOREVER. Seriously, auditions might seem stressful or scary, but we really want to make them as fun and low-key as possible, because singing is great and you’re great and a cappella is the greatest. Remember, there is no messing up, there is only forgetting the words to a song and then soulfully humming your way through the next stanza until you remember what’s going on. We’ve all been there, sister.
Q: Can I audition for other groups?
A: Absolutely. We encourage you to audition for multiple groups so that you get a chance to meet as many of the different, wonderful people involved in a cappella at UChicago as possible, and so you find the group that really fits you best.
Q: What happens after auditions?
A: We will send you an email letting you know if we’d like to see you at callbacks.
Q: What if I have a conflict the night of callbacks?
A: Unfortunately, there are no make-up callbacks. Not only are callbacks our chance to really get a sense for your musical style and your personality, but they’re your chance to get to know the ladies of Men in Drag and pick our brains about the group. If you are asked to callbacks, it is important that you be present the whole time.
Q: When will I hear whether or not I’ve gotten into the group?
A: We will contact you with our decision on Saturday afternoon. WEEEeeeeeeEEEeeeeeeee!!!!
Q: Is there anything else I should know?
A: We strongly recommend that you come to the A Cappella Showcase - we’ll be performing a couple songs, and it’s a great opportunity for you to get a sense of the personalities of all of the student groups. We’ll also be around to answer questions afterwards, so come up and say hi! You can also email us at mid@menindrag.org with any questions, funny memes, YouTube videos involving adorable animals, or comments.