Regiment Auditions Around the Corner

We hope you are as excited as we are to start the 2009 season as the defending world champions! Auditions are around the corner and we are here to answer any questions you may have. If you only ordered the packet as you weren’t sure if you were going to audition, but now have decided to take the first step to learning the meaning of SUTA, make sure you pay your registration fee online this weekend. The early payment deadline has been extended! If you pay at the door, you will not receive the early payment discount. You can register and pay here.

If you are now just deciding to audition – that’s not a problem and it’s not too late. Register and pay now to receive the early payment discount while it’s been extended.

If you have registered already, or are going to – don’t forget to do the following two action items.

1) Send us your picture so we can print out your audition sheets ahead of time. Go here to read more about this. If you do not send in your picture in advance, you will not be able to audition until later and you will need to stand in long lines to get it done. A camera phone shot is fine as long as it’s clear and follows passport photo guidelines set here.

2) Fill out your travel plans here so we know when to expect you. This is for everyone including those that are driving. For those taking the Van Galder bus, this will help us to plan on how many buses they will need to have ready for us on Sunday for your departure. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT!

For any parents – there will be a parent/volunteer meeting on Sunday morning at 10am on both audition weekends. Also, if you are planning to be at the camp all weekend and would like to volunteer, we’d love to have you! Send us an email to let us know which weekend and what time you will be arriving. Volunteer duties include registration, breakfast and snack preparation, and other misc minor things.

We have two different audition weekends taking place in the Rockford area only.
Nov 28-30 – Brass & Conductors only.
Registration begins at 4pm and rehearsal/auditions begin at 6pm. If you’re going to be late because of classes or late flights – don’t worry. We will be registering people all night and into Saturday. This weekend will take place at Beloit Memorial High School – 1225 4th St., Beloit, WI 53511. Don’t worry, Beloit, Wisconsin is only 20 miles north of Rockford. We actually will use this school for two other camps later in the season as well. If you are driving, there is a parking lot across the street from the main entrance of the school. (For that know where the field house is – do NOT park in the parking lot behind it, that is only for buses, trucks, and staff). If you are flying in and taking the Van Galder bus from one of the Chicago airports, you will take the bus to the South Beloit stop. From there, we will pick you up and bring you to the school. Though, we will NOT start our shuttles till after 3pm. So if you arrive early you may want to check the Van Galder schedule so you’re not sitting at the South Beloit stop for a long period of time. For your information, the South Beloit stop DOES have a McDonald’s.

Dec 5-7 – Color Guard and Percussion only.
Registration for this camp will begin no earlier than 5pm – BUT may start later due to another activity going at the school. So stay tuned for exact check in times. The school is located in Rockford and the address will be posted soon. If you’re going to be late because of classes or late flights – don’t worry. We will be registering people all night and into Saturday. If you are flying in and taking the Van Galder bus from one of the Chicago airports, you will take the bus to the Clock Tower stop in Rockford. From there, we will pick you up and bring you to the school. Though, we will NOT start our shuttles till after 3pm. For your information, the Clock Tower stop does have a restaurant and a nice video game arcade. And if you’re really early – and indoor water park! Also, across the street there is a Subway at the gas station. As well as the welcome to Rockford – Home of the World Champion Phantom Regiment sign! (For those adventuring across the street to take pictures next to the sign, please be careful crossing the street and obey all laws – it is a busy street).

We know coming to audition can be stressful and nerve wracking. But you should know that we treat this more than just an audition. You will experience the true Phantom Regiment. We will do everything possible to make sure you have a fun and exciting weekend. You’ll also learn a lot about the organization, about yourself, and meet a lot of new friends. We want you to have the best possible experience! Do not be afraid or intimidated so much that you choose not to audition. Once you get here, you will understand and be glad you showed up. The very first hurtle is actually showing up…so go for it!

Even if you think you are too young, or not good enough – by showing up you will receive valuable instruction and feedback as well as experience for another audition elsewhere, or for when you come back the following year. Some helpful tips for your weekend with us:
1) Always have a great & positive attitude. Take constructive criticism positively.
2) Be open minded. The way we do things may not be the way you are used to, but it is the way the Phantom Regiment does it.
3) Be outgoing and meet new people from all over the country. Be prepared to make some friends. Even though it’s a short weekend, your experience will be shared with those around you for the rest of your life.
4) Have fun.

We look forward to meeting you and kicking off the 2009 season!