TopCats

Auditions

Auditions for the Carolina Panthers 2009 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 January 2010.

Audition Dates (rain or shine):

Location

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

Format

Audition Clinic - Get ready for TopCats auditions by attending the TopCats Audition Clinic. Designed to better prepare contestants for the actual auditions, this optional clinic features technique and dance instruction from the TopCats choreographer. The audition clinic also includes a simulated preliminary audition where participants can perform to the audition music and receive tips from the TopCats staff. Click here to learn more.

Preliminaries Round 1 - Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. with auditions starting at 10:00 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 three-week evaluation period before the final squad is selected in May. During this time, rehearsals and meetings will be held on Monday or Wednesday evenings and some Saturday mornings in May. This period will provide finalists a great 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 18, 2009.
• 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 Monday and Wednesday evenings and some Saturday mornings, beginning in April.
• 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 18, 2009. 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: Is the audition class mandatory?
Answer: The audition class is not mandatory but provides excellent preparation for the audition.

Question: Is there a cost to audition?
Answer: While there is a non-refundable cost associated with the April 4 audition clinic, there is no fee to audition for the squad on April 18.

Question: If I make the squad, what type of time commitment is required?
Answer: From May through July, the TopCats rehearse twice weekly with practices on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and some Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.. Beginning in August, rehearsals are held weekly on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 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 Grant at 704-358-7722. The Carolina Panthers are an Equal Opportunity Employer.