MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation is officially underway with auditions for the upcoming 2026 summer season, as the organization continues its steady rebuild and looks to expand performances, participation, and community involvement.
Executive Director Dale Antoine said auditions for this summer’s Sky Ryders drum corps have already begun and will continue through April. The process includes both video and in-person auditions, giving young musicians flexibility in how they participate.
“We’ve just started our audition cycle,” Antoine said. “We had a color guard audition in Hutchinson in December, an all-sections audition in Emporia this past weekend, and we’ll be holding more auditions in Wichita, Kansas City, and other locations across the region.”
- Jan. 31 - Tyler Tex. - Tyler Legacy High School
- Jan 31 - Holiday Tex. - Holiday High School
- Feb. 21 - Wichita, Kan. - Wichita Northwest High School
- Mar. 28 - Overland Park, Kan. - Shawnee Mission West High School
- Apr. 11 - Hollister, Mo. - Hollister High School
All auditions are day camps and are held 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can get more information on their website.
Auditions are open to youth ages 14 to 21. Prospective members can find detailed audition materials for each section on the organization’s website, including music excerpts and performance expectations. In addition to individual evaluations, auditionees also participate in ensemble settings and receive detailed feedback on strengths and areas for improvement.
A demanding but rewarding experience
Antoine emphasized that drum corps participation is physically demanding, describing members as “elite athletes” as well as musicians. Spring training and summer rehearsals involve long days and rigorous conditioning.
“It can be physically challenging,” Antoine said. “But we take very good care of the kids. If you’re not in shape when you start, you’ll be in shape by the end.”
Last season marked the Sky Ryders’ first year after a 32-year absence. Antoine said the 2025 season exceeded expectations, with 76 students from across the region participating.
The corps rehearsed and performed locally before touring to Iowa and Illinois, with a rainout canceling one scheduled performance. The season concluded with positive feedback from both audiences and organizers.
Expanded performance schedule in 2026
The 2026 season will include an expanded slate of performances, including a July 13 show in Olathe and a return to Hutchinson with a multi-corps event at Gowans Stadium on July 14. The Hutchinson show will again be supported by Drum Corps International, which sanctioned a similar event in 2025.
Additional performances are scheduled in Killeen and San Antonio, Texas, with the season concluding July 18.
“We’re increasing the number of performances and continuing to build momentum locally,” Antoine said. “Bringing multiple drum corps to Hutchinson again is a big part of that.”
Education beyond the field
Beyond musical development, Antoine said participants gain valuable life skills, including time management, teamwork, and communication.
“Our members range from 14 to 21 years old, many of whom have never met before,” he said. “They learn how to work together, manage long days, and handle demanding schedules — all while performing at a high level.”
Foundation support and volunteer needs
The Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation serves as the nonprofit umbrella organization supporting the corps. Antoine noted that all leadership roles, including his own, are volunteer positions.
Operating a touring drum corps requires a significant budget. Antoine said last season’s expenses totaled approximately $170,000, with costs expected to increase this year.
In addition to financial contributions, the foundation is seeking practical assistance. Current needs include a local truck driver to help move a newly purchased 50-foot equipment trailer, as well as volunteers willing to assist with food service, medical support, or tour logistics.
“We’ve been fortunate with community support,” Antoine said. “Last year we put out a call for a seamstress and someone stepped up immediately. That kind of involvement makes a huge difference.”
Long-term vision
The Sky Ryders are currently competing in SoundSport, an entry-level division within Drum Corps International. Antoine said the organization has applied for Open Class Affiliate status, a key step toward eventually returning to world-class competition.
“This is a long-term process,” he said. “DCI wants to make sure organizations are stable and sustainable. We’re taking the right steps, and they’re very pleased with our progress.”
Spring training for the 2026 season begins June 28 in Hutchinson, with rehearsals running through July 13. The corps will again participate in local Independence Day events while in town.
More information about auditions, volunteer opportunities, and donations is available through the Sky Ryders Performing Arts Foundation website.