Upcoming Auditions

Written by Tina Howe

Auditions for "Coastal Disturbances" will be held:
February 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 of 2010 at 7 pm
in The Studio, on the third floor of the Starlighters Theatre in Anamosa

* The two additional audition dates (Feb. 10 and 11) have been added due to the weather forecast.

* Special audition dates may be arranged by contacting the director, Bob Furino, if you are interested in auditioning, but cannot make any of the scheduled audition dates and times.

Director: Bob Furino (Delhi)
E-Mail: bfurino@mchsi.com
Telephone: 319-462-4793 Ext.821

THE STORY:
This highly acclaimed Broadway hit, and Tony Award nominee for Best Play, takes place on a private New England beach. Leo Hart, a strong, handsome lifeguard, and Holly Dancer, a young, attractive would-be fine art photographer, are both rebounding from troubled relationships and find each other amid the gale winds of romance that engulf this sandy shore.  Also inhabiting the coastal retreat these late summer days, struggling with their own stories, are Ariel, who has recently endured a difficult divorce, and her high-energy 10-year-old, Winston; the pregnant Faith, Ariel’s college roommate, and her adopted daughter, Miranda; and the older MJ and Hamilton Adams, who continue the quest for a more perfect marriage, even after raising nine children.  This beautiful story examines love from all sides, amid the ebb and flow of summer life swirling around these individuals.

Production Dates:
April 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Sundays at 2 pm

Characters in "Coastal Disturbances":
( *numbers inside brackets indicate [# of pages character appears in play/# of pages where character has lines/Total # of pages in play] )

Holly Dancer (aged 20 to 35) [67/63/86]:
Holly Dancer has come to her aunt's beach home to get away from her personal and career life, which are both spinning out of control. She is a mixed-up and somewhat depressive young photographer from New York, who fancies Leo but seems to be going through some sort of crisis, perhaps even a nervous breakdown of sorts. She is also recovering from a bad breakup with the European owner of a photography gallery where she had hoped to have her work displayed. Holly does her best to manage her emotions, but can still burst into tears at the drop of a hat. Any time Leo comes uncomfortably close to her, she backs off. She is at once completely awed and overcome by him, and yet keeps pushing him away. Her attraction to him makes her feel totally out of control.

Leo Hart (aged 20 to 35) [70/61/86]:
Leo Hart is an attractive lifeguard who's recovering from a failed engagement, but seems to be willing to try again after one look at Holly. Leo's drifter life style hardly make him Mr. Right for the ambitious Holly -- but she is drawn to the impulsive young lifeguard nonetheless. Leo has been hired as a lifeguard after a young boy drowned. The uneven process of the relationship between Leo and Holly forms the spine of the play. Leo is attracted to Holly from the second he sees her. He hovers over her. He asks her out. However, Holly always seems just out of reach for the lifeguard, until she witnesses Leo's care for a young child who has just stepped on a shard of glass and gotten it lodged in her foot. This event seems to break the ice and open up possibilities for the lifeguard and the photographer.

M. J. Adams (aged 60 to 75) [25/19/86]:
The changing tide and sky won't stand still for the aging artist, M.J. Adams, to capture it on her canvas. This watercolorist unfortunately is finding that life's experiences can't be contained within a firmly framed emotional canvas. The emotional disgust she exhibits for her own work is mirrored by the unconditional admiration her husband has for everything she does.

Dr. Hamilton Adams (aged 60 to 80) [27/18/86]:
Dr. Hamilton Adams, a retired eye surgeon whose main occupation these days is collecting shells, has come to the beach with his wife, M.J., a watercolor artist who seems constantly dissatisfied by her own work. Although Dr. Adams has only the greatest affection and admiration for his wife, it seems that this has not always been true throughout their life together, and M. J. often reminds him of that fact, much to his chagrin.

Ariel Took (aged 20 to 40) [37/25/86]:
A divorced mother who seems to be at the mercy of her exposed nerves, Ariel Took has developed a deep distrust for men that often borders on hatred. She has brought to the beach a large helping of unhappiness, along with blankets, toys, and her energetic young son, Winston. Ariel has come to the beach at the invitation of her friend, Faith Bigelow.

Winston Took (aged 8 to 11) [45/22/86]:
Young Winston Took, son of Ariel, finds that his fun at the beach can't shut out his mother Ariel's unhappiness. He is very energetic and undisciplined. His high energy and lack of behavior do nothing to help his mother's frail nerves, and leads to a sudden and uncomfortable confrontation between mother and son.

Faith Bigelow (aged 20 to 40) [33/29/86]:
Faith Bigelow is a happy, and pregnant young wife who has come to the beach with her young adopted daughter Miranda. Faith has invited her friend, Ariel Took, to accompany her to the beach, hoping that the experience will help improve her friend's outlook on life.

Miranda Bigelow (aged 7 to 10) [34/18/86]:
Miranda Bigelow is the young adopted daughter of Faith Bigelow. She is good friends with Winston Took, but also finds herself constantly in competition with him. She discovers that her wonderful beach has its imperfections when she steps on a glass shard.

Andre Sor (aged 30 to 55) [11/10/86]:
Andre Sor is a middle-aged owner of a photography gallery in New York. He is also Holly's lover. However this affair seems to be simply one of convenience for him, while Holly has always hoped for it to develop into more. He follows Holly to the beach, having detected that she has been more distant of late.

* [Actors do not necessarily need to be in the age ranges given, as long as they could possibly play someone in that age range.]

Download a modified French Scene Chart
of Coastal Disturbances

AUDITION INFORMATION:
If you are coming to auditions, you may bring a prepared monologue that would give me an idea of your range as an actor. That monologue should, if possible, connect, at least somewhat, to some of the character elements found in Coastal Disturbances. However, monologues or prepared pieces are NOT mandatory, and it will not be held against an actor if that person chooses not to do a prepared piece.

There will be several different elements in my auditions, not just cold readings from the script. These may include such things as movement activities, emotion activities, etc. I do this because I like to give each actor a chance to show his/her abilities and talents in a number of different ways. I figure it is my only chance to "get it right" as far as casting goes, so I like to cover as many bases as possible, and let every auditioner have a chance to "shine."

It is permissible to attend more than one audition, if you wish. Some attend only one, some come to two, and some come to all three. However, any actor need only attend one audition night to be fully considered for all of the appropriate roles in the show.

If, for some reason, you cannot attend any of the planned audition nights, but still wish to audition for the show, please contact me at the e-mail address above, and I will try my best to arrange for a special audition time for you.

All children auditioning for the roles of Miranda Bigelow and Winston Took MUST have a parent or guardian attend auditions with them, as these roles contain a small amount of strong language.

If you would like to get more information about the show and/or auditions, please contact me, director Bob Furino, at the e-mail address above.

What the critics said about Coastal Disturbances:

"Generously illuminates the intimate landscape between men and women."
- N.Y. Times.

"Enchanting."
- New Yorker.

"Endearing."
- NBC TV.

"Will appeal only to play goers who like charming and sympathetic characters, tender romance, laughs and rueful wisdom about the pitfalls of love."
- Variety.

"Whosoever's heart this play does not break, whosoever's soul it does not enthrall, may just lack those organs."
- N.Y. Magazine.

“as relaxing and refreshing as a day at the shore!” 
- Judith Crist

“An enchanting play!”
- Edith Oliver – The New Yorker

“Coastal Disturbances is hilarious and erotic!  A modern play about love that is, for once, actually about love.”
- Frank Rich – The New York Times

“An exhilaratingly believable play, heartbreakingly sweet!”
- John Simon – New York Magazine

“Coastal Disturbances is like a set of bright, vividly drawn watercolors which will bring back very special memories.”
- Howard Kissel – New York Daily News

“Magic!”
- Leida Snow – WINS Radio

* Read the full review of Coastal Disturbances by John Simon, Theatre Critic for New York Magazine

* Read a 22-page preview of the script of Coastal Disturbances at Google Books

Conceived by David Grapes and Todd Olson

Auditions for "My Way" will be held:
May 23, 24, 25 of 2010 at 7 pm
at the Starlighters Theatre in Anamosa

Director: Brian Glick (Olin)
E-Mail: b-jglick@hotmail.com

THE STORY:
This new music showcase, conceived by David Grapes and Todd Olson, features dozens of songs recorded by "Old Blue Eyes," and is currently playing to packed houses throughout the country. This highly acclaimed show recalls the essence of Sinatra through the fabulous music he sang and brought alive for generations of audiences. It celebrates the mystique and legend of the man, through the music he loved best. This tribute to Frank Sinatra, “the first modern pop superstar,” enchants the audience with an elegant evening of such Sinatra standards as "All the Way," "Fly Me to The Moon," "I Only Have Eyes For You," "It Was A Very Good Year," "The Lady Is A Tramp," "My Funny Valentine," "New York, New York," "Strangers In The Night," "Love And Marriage," and of course, "My Way." A bright, breezy tribute to one of the greatest vocalists of all time.

Production Dates:
July 30, 31, July 1, 6, 7*, 8
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Sundays at 2 pm

* There will be two shows on Saturday, July 7, a matinee at 2 PM and an evening show at 7:30 PM.

Characters in "My Way: A Musical Tribute To Frank Sinatra":

Man #1 (age 40-60):
Should have a dark Italian look (the "Rat Pack" years). Man #1 must have a deep/rich strong velvety baritone voice in the Sinatra mode. He sings many of the Sinatra standards, so he needs to have an incredible vocal instrument and have a feel for Sinatra's unusual phrasing and distinctive vocal style. He should dance or at the very least move extremely well. Tap dance skills are a big plus as there are a number of optional tap/dance breaks written for this character. Man #1 should also be able to sing close harmony. Ideally, this actor projects the style and easy sophistication that was the Sinatra trademark WITHOUT DOING ANY SORT OF PHYSICAL OR VOCAL IMITATION of the man. He is the leader of the ensemble in terms of setting the tone and style that the show's music demands. Finally, he must relate well to the audience and possess the charisma to bring them along on this two hour musical journey into the world of "cool." This is the "key" casting decision and will be the most difficult performer to locate and cast.

Man #2 (age 18-25):
The skinny 1940's big band "crooner" look. This actor should have all American boy good looks and be a physical contrast to the actor playing Man #1. He should have a strong legit lyric baritone voice and be an excellent part singer. He sings up to a G. Listen to the Sinatra recordings with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra to understand the smooth easy vocal style that is required for this role. Man #2 should also have a natural and unaffected flair for comedy as he carries much of the show's humor and lighter moments. He spends much of the show trying to learn how to be "cool." He is matched with Woman #2 and they need to look great as a pair. Moves well.

Man #3 (age 35-50):
In love with Women #3 (More character description, TBA).

Woman #1 (age 40-60):
Should have dark, sensual, exotic, and striking good looks. In some ways, her character represents the female version of Frank ("Rat Pack" period). She is a "classy dame" who drips with style, sophistication, and class. Woman #1 has the more difficult singing role of the two women. Vocally she is a strong mezzo soprano who can also belt. Her vocal style is based on great "torch singers" like Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, and Judy Garland. In other words, she performs with "balls." This actress sings through a wide range vocally and must also be a capable part singer. A dark, smoky, husky sound is preferred. This actress must look good and match up well physically with Man #1. One of the two women should be a strong dancer and the other move well.

Woman #2 (age 18-25):
Must be a leggy blonde or redhead with drop dead looks and a smile that lights up the room. She should be able to project an energetic and youthful sexuality to the audience. Woman #2 is the type of woman that always attracted Frank (aka Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner, Mia Farrow, etc). Vocally this character needs to have that same smooth liquid big band singer sound of the 40's that Man #2 should also possess. Woman #2 is also a mezzo but does sing some soprano parts. Her voice should be lighter and provide a contrast to the darker sound required for Woman #1. She too needs to be a capable part singer. For this role a strong dancer with tap skills would be a big plus. In the original production, Man #1 and Woman #2 were both outstanding tap dancers. Woman #2 matches up physically with Man #2 and the two of them should make a handsome couple.

Woman #3 (age 35-40):
In love with man #3 (More character description, TBA).

* [Actors do not necessarily need to be in the age ranges given, as long as they could possibly play someone in that age range.]

Written by Tom Topor

Auditions for "Nuts" will be held:
August 22, 23, 24 of 2010 at 7 pm
at the Starlighters Theatre in Anamosa

Director: William Wims (Cedar Rapids)
E-Mail: photobug62@hotmail.com

THE STORY:
A Broadway hit by Tom Topor, Nuts proudly takes its place among the best courtroom dramas such as Witness for the Prosecution and The Caine Mutiny Court Martial. Set in a courtroom in New York's Bellevue Hospital, the story follows a high-priced call girl, Claudia Faith Draper, jailed for killing a violent client. The State’s team, including a court appointed psychiatrist and an aggressive prosecutor, maintain that she is unfit to stand trial. As testimony from witnesses, including doctors, experts, and her own parents is presented, her inner self and her childhood are put under the microscope.
Claudia attempts to prove that she isn't "nuts," and should be allowed to stand legally sane at trial for manslaughter.

Production Dates:
October 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Sundays at 2 pm

music and book by Leslie Bricusse

Auditions for "Scrooge: The Musical" will be held:
October 3, 4, 5 of 2010 at 7 pm
at the Starlighters Theatre in Anamosa

Director: Brian Glick (Olin)
E-Mail: b-jglick@hotmail.com

THE STORY:
Scrooge: The Musical is a delightful musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel, A Christmas Carol. Like the musical, Oliver!, Scrooge brings to life the world of mid-19th century London. In this era of widespread poverty, one of the only things that most could look forward to was the celebration of Christmas. Ebenezer Scrooge, the cold and insensitive merchant banker and moneylender, has no use for Christmas and merriment. Money is his only love. However, he has an awakening of the heart and soul after intriguing visits from three spirits on Christmas Eve. With help from the spirits and newly discovered friends, Scrooge finally makes a Merry Christmas.
Be a part of this Dickensian celebration, and enjoy the enchanting music and book by Leslie Bricusse!

Production Dates:
December 3, 4, 5, 10, 11*, 12
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm
Sundays at 2 pm

* There will be two shows on Saturday, December 11, a matinee at 2 PM and an evening show at 7:30 PM.

Characters in "Scrooge: The Musical":

Ebenezer Scrooge (legit voice, moves well / age 40-60s):
Scrooge is a hard, cold miser who spends his days counting his profits and wishing the world would leave him alone. He doesn't believe in charity. Scrooge's entire life is his business. Demonstrates a gradual change in attitude.

Bob Cratchit (legit voice / age 30s-40s):
Scrooge’s overworked and underpaid clerk, who nonetheless finds great joy in life, especially in the love of his large family.

Tom Jenkins (legit voice, dance / age 25-50s):
A street salesman who owes money to Scrooge, but leads the campaign in the town hating Scrooge.

Jacob Marley (age 40-60s ):
Scrooge’s late business partner, who died on Christmas Eve seven years prior to the beginning of the story. Marley’s Ghost appears to Scrooge to warn him that he must learn the lessons that Marley never did.

Ghost of Christmas Past (female comic role/ age 17-25):
The Ghost of Christmas Past shows Scrooge his youth and what really happened to his happiness. By showing Scrooge his past, the ghost has makes him realize that he has changed drastically from who he was when he was young and that his interests have turned from people to money.

Ghost of Christmas Present (age 30-45):
The Ghost of Christmas Present is a friendly, generous giant with the energy of a child but the knowledge of an adult. Scrooge bonds the most with this Ghost because he shows him how happy life can be.

Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come (non-speaking):
The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come is an unusually tall dark phantom. A dramatic physical role.

Mr. Fezziwig (age 40s-60s):
The man under whom young Ebenezer Scrooge served an apprenticeship, whose party for employees and friends at Christmas exemplifies the generosity of spirit and power to nurture others.

Mrs. Fezziwig (age 40-60s):
Generous and happy, like her husband.

Youth Ebenezer (age 8-10):
Scrooge as a boy in boarding school. He is lonely and depressed because he is neglected by his family during the holidays.

Young Adult Ebenezer (legit voice, age 16-20):
Scrooge as a young adult who loves working for Fezziwig and loves his girl Belle. Later we see that Scrooge takes work too seriously and cares much more about money than life. May double as Nephew Harry.

Harry (age early 20s):
(Named Fred in the Novel.) Scrooge’s nephew, much like Bob Cratchit, maintains a child-like enjoyment of life and family. Harry maintains a generous spirit toward his miserly uncle, extending an annual invitation to Christmas dinner no matter how many times Scrooge declines it.

Isabel (age 16 - 25):
Also known as Belle - the young woman who once loved and was loved by Scrooge. Unfortunately, his love for her was replaced by his love for money, and she left him.

Mrs. Cratchit (age 30-40s):
Bob's wife, a kind and loving woman. Very much like her husband but is not afraid to speak her mind and stand up for herself. She wishes Bob would do the same.

Tiny Tim (legit voice, age 6 - 10):
A young boy who cannot walk without the aid of braces and crutch, but who is devout and wise beyond his years. Tim is the essence of childish innocence. He is described as “patient” and “mild,” examples of his virtuous character. May be played by a female.

Cratchit Kids (ages 6-10):
Peter, Martha, Cathie, Mary

Kids Chorus (age 8-14)

Other Featured Speaking or Singing Parts. Plus a ton of extras (age 18-60s):
Jocelyn Jollygoode, Mr. Pringle, Mr. Bissett, Harriet Hearty, Mrs. Dilber, Miss Dilber, Mr. Carstairs, Dick Wilkins, Teacher, Punch and Judy Man, Marley Phantoms.

* [Actors do not necessarily need to be in the age ranges given, as long as they could possibly play someone in that age range.]

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