Cast Size: Large (21 or more performers), Flexible Cast Size
Cast Type: Children, Strong/Large Chorus, Star Vehicle Male, Ensemble Cast
Vocal Requirements: Moderate to Advanced Broadway-Style Singing
Dance Requirements: Standard Movement and Staging
Hans Christian Andersen JR. features a large, flexible cast with excellent ensemble opportunities and standout principal roles for strong young performers. Inspired by the beloved fairytales of Hans Christian Andersen, this Broadway Junior musical gives schools the opportunity to showcase storytelling, creativity, and character acting while involving a large number of students.
Main Characters
Crantz
Co-narrator with Guilder of the story. Crantz functions as part of a comedic duo while narrating and frequently steps into scenes as other characters throughout the show.
Vocal Range: C4 - Db5
Guilder
Co-narrator with Crantz of the story. Guilder serves as the other half of the comedic narration team and helps guide the audience through Christian’s adventures and fairytales.
Vocal Range: C4 - Db5
Christian
The titular Hans Christian Andersen, Christian is a gifted storyteller who receives the opportunity to attend the Royal Academy. Though talented and imaginative, he struggles to fit in and longs for home. This is an excellent lead role for a strong young male performer with warmth, vulnerability, and storytelling ability.
Vocal Range: A3 - F#5
Anne Marie Andersen
Christian’s caring and supportive mother who encourages his imagination and creativity. A warm and heartfelt role.
Vocal Range: G3 - E5
Hans Andersen
Christian’s hardworking father who wants the very best for his son and family. Though well-intentioned, he places pressure on Christian to succeed.
Vocal Range: B3 - E5
Princess Vilhelmina
A princess determined to meet the expectations of perfection placed upon her. Though she may appear spoiled or demanding, her struggles stem from immense pressure and responsibility.
Vocal Range: C4 - E5
Headmistress Thagar
A layered and mature role for a thoughtful performer. Though strict and intimidating at first, she ultimately recognizes Christian’s gifts and empathizes with his journey.
Vocal Range: B3 - D#5
Princess Caroline
The “invisible princess,” Caroline has been hidden away from the kingdom due to her wheelchair. Christian helps her discover her confidence, creativity, and leadership abilities.
Vocal Range: A3 - E5
Mrs. Madsen
An energetic sausage seller with a flair for gossip and gathering crowds. Mrs. Madsen enthusiastically supports Christian’s storytelling performances.
Vocal Range: A3 - C5
Gregors
A fishmonger and friendly rival to Mrs. Madsen. Gregors helps gather audiences for Christian’s stories and often joins in the fun.
Vocal Range: Ab3 - D#5
Gerda
A child selected from the crowd during “The King’s New Clothes” who bravely reveals the truth.
Vocal Range: B3 - C#5
Ensemble Roles
The ensemble in Hans Christian Andersen JR. plays a major role in bringing the magical fairytales and bustling city scenes to life. Ensemble members may portray:
- Match Girl
- Royal Guard
- Marcario
- Thor
- Loki
- Mother Duck
- Ugly Duckling
- Ducklings
- King
- Students
- Newsboys
- Chimney Sweeps
- Match Girls
- Sausage Sellers
- Fishmongers
- Vendors
- Passersby
- Children
- Crowd Members
- Mermaid Family
- Mer-King
- Prince
Why Teachers Choose Hans Christian Andersen JR.
- Excellent large-cast musical with flexible ensemble opportunities
- Strong storytelling focus encourages expressive acting skills
- Features beloved fairytale characters audiences instantly recognize
- Offers meaningful principal roles for both male and female performers
- Positive themes of creativity, confidence, and individuality
- Ideal for schools wanting a family-friendly Broadway Junior title
Before You Order
Before ordering Hans Christian Andersen JR., consider your program’s cast size, vocal strengths, and interest in storytelling-heavy productions. This title works especially well for schools seeking a large ensemble musical with memorable featured characters and opportunities for creative staging and costumes.
