Community theatre – it’s Fantastick
Homegrown Productions is holding auditions next week for The Fantasticks, a musical that’s the longest-running production of any kind in the world.
“This timeless fable of love manages to be nostalgic and universal at the same time,” says Susan DeRosa, co-director, along with Beth Webb. “Even if you have never seen a performance of The Fantasticks, chances are you can hum its best-known musical number, “Try to Remember.”
Auditions are Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 25-26, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Wilson Center Auditorium, 101 Cass St., St. Johns. Performance dates are March 10-13.
Actors should come prepared to sing and read from the script; perusal scripts are not available prior to auditions. A piano accompanist will be on site; bring sheet music (preferred) or karaoke-style CD. Persons auditioning must be at least 18.
The characters with musical range include: the actor (Henry), an aging, over-the-top thespian, non-singing part; the boy (Matt), an innocent young man, baritone/tenor; the boy’s father (Hucklebee), meticulous gardener, baritone; the girl (Luisa), a romantic idealist, soprano; the girl’s father (Bellomy), also a picky gardener, baritone; the man who dies (Mortimer), Henry’s goofy sidekick, non-singing; the mute, a speechless presence who watches, acts as the wall, etc., male or female, non-singing; the narrator (El Gallo), a rakish, handsome gallant, baritone.
Webb and DeRosa are teaming up again to direct The Fantasticks. Their premiere effort in 2009, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, generated funds for renovations to the Wilson Auditorium – the site once again of this year’s production. Homegrown Productions is working in partnership with the Clinton County Arts Council.
For detailed information on The Fantasticks call Webb, (989) 224-8982, or DeRosa, (517) 651-2949.