TopCats

Auditions

Auditions for the Carolina Panthers 2013 cheerleading squad have already occurred. If you are interested in trying out for the TopCats in the future, please review the information below to better prepare yourself. Information for next year's auditions will be posted in early 2014.

Audition Dates (rain or shine):

Location

Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C. Please click here for directions. Enter Bank of America Stadium off of Morehead Street. Once parked, follow signs to the audition entrance.

Format

Audition Clinics - Get ready for auditions by attending the TopCats Audition Clinics. Designed to better prepare contestants for the actual auditions, these optional clinics feature technique and dance instruction from the TopCats choreographer. Click here to learn more.

Preliminaries Round 1 - Check-in begins at 9 a.m. with auditions starting at 10 a.m. Contestants should prepare choreography without costumes or props to the following music clip. Click here to listen to the clip. Contestants will perform in groups of five. The dance area for each individual will be limited to a four-foot by four-foot area, so avoid floor work and limit traveling. Preliminary auditions will be based on basic dance skills, physical fitness, presentation and showmanship. Those selected will return for round two.

Preliminaries Round 2 - Contestants will perform in groups of five to a dance routine taught by the TopCats choreographer. Those selected will return for semifinals.

Semifinals - Semifinals will consist of an interview, meeting, two rehearsals and competition, which are all mandatory. Those selected will return as finalists.

Finals - Candidates chosen as finalists will join the TopCats program for a two-week evaluation period before the final squad is selected at the end of April. This period will provide finalists an opportunity to experience the program as well as more time to showcase their personalities and talents.

Qualifications

• All contestants must be at least 21 years old by April 6, 2013.
• All contestants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• All contestants must pass a pre-employment and periodic drug screen as well as satisfactorily complete a criminal and civil background check, including driving history.
• Formal dance instruction is not a prerequisite, but strong dance skills and physical fitness are required.
• Those selected must be available to practice Wednesday evenings and some Saturday mornings, beginning in June.
• In addition to rehearsals and performing at home games, cheerleaders make charitable and corporate appearances.
• Please note this is a part-time position that cheerleaders hold in addition to their regular work or college schedules.

Audition Attire

Contestants should wear two-piece dance attire, skin-tone tights and sneakers suitable for dance. Bring a warm-up or other casual clothing to wear over dance attire. Restrooms will be available; however, there will be no formal changing facilities.

What To Bring

Concession stands will not be open. Contestants should bring food and beverages with them.

Special Considerations

Auditions are CLOSED to the public. Only contestants will be allowed inside the stadium. No video cameras are permitted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What does it take to become a TopCat?
Answer:

• Enthusiasm and energy
• Showmanship and poise
• Physical fitness
• Dance technique
• Dedication
• Team Player

Question: Is being a Carolina Panthers cheerleader a full-time job?
Answer: No. Being a TopCat is a part-time commitment. Most squad members hold other full-time jobs or attend college.

Question: Do I have to relocate to the Charlotte area if selected as a TopCat?
Answer: No. We are proud to have TopCats living in North and South Carolina.

Question: Are there any height and weight requirements?
Answer: There are no height or weight requirements, but cheerleaders should be physically fit.

Question: Are there any age requirements?
Answer: Yes, all contestants must meet the minimum age requirement, which is 21 years old by April 6, 2013. There is no maximum age limit.

Question: How should I wear my make-up and hair?
Answer: Wear make-up in colors that flatter your skin tone. A natural but polished look is recommended. Wear a hairstyle that complements your features but does not hide your face.

Question: What type of audition attire is recommended?
Answer: Wear an audition outfit suitable for dance in a style and colors that best complement your skin tone and figure.

Question: Are the audition clinics mandatory?
Answer: The audition clinics are not mandatory but provide excellent preparation for auditions.

Question: Is there a cost to audition?
Answer: While there is a non-refundable cost associated with the audition clinics on March 13 and 20 and April 3, there is no fee to audition on April 6. However, pre-registration is required.

Question: If I make the squad, what type of time commitment is required?
Answer: From May through July, the TopCats rehearse weekly with practices on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and some Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Beginning in August, rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. through the end of the Panthers season. The TopCats cheer at all Panthers home games and also make charity and corporate appearances throughout the course of the season.

If you have additional questions, please call Richelle Williams at 704-358-7722. The Carolina Panthers are an Equal Opportunity Employer.