Full Details Set For Auditions For Blue Spruce Theatre's ONCE ON THIS ISLAND 5/10-11

Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty's Once on this Island auditions held May 10-11, 6:30-9:30pm,
callbacks May 12 6:30-9:30pm. Auditions are at Watertown Middle School 68 Waverley Ave. in Watertown, MA

About Once on this Island:
This highly original and theatrical Caribbean adaptation of the popular fairy tale "The Little Mermaid" garnered eight Tony nominations for its Broadway run, including Best Musical, Book and Score. In almost non-stop song and dance, the show tells the story of Ti Moune, a black peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. When Daniel is returned to his people, the fantastical gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred and death.
(Performances October 7-24, 2010 at the Arsenal Center for the Arts)
Directed by: Jennifer Condon and Jesse Strachman
Choreography by: Jennifer Condon

AUDITION DETAILS

Important casting note: This show is traditionally cast with people who are ethnically appropriate to be living on the island of Haiti. We will be not be following any such restrictions, and all roles are open to people of all backgrounds.

About the audition process:
General auditions will be held by appointment in 5-minute increments. To request an appointment time, please email info@bluesprucetheatre.org This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or call 978-667-0512. All audition appointments will be confirmed. Walk-ins will be accommodated as possible.

Singers should prepare two contrasting 16-bar selections in the style of the show (Broadway Pop). A song from outside of the musical theatre repertoire is acceptable as long as it is in the style of the show. You may sing a selection from the show if you choose, but please bring your sheet music with you. An accompanist will be provided. Actors may be asked to read a short side at the audition.

Callbacks will consist of prepared song and scene selections from the musical, and all actors will be asked to perform a short dance combination at callbacks, so please be prepared to move.

Actors of all ethnicities are encouraged to audition. Also, even if you do not see a part that you think is appropriate for you, please consider auditioning; many roles can be non-traditionally cast. Please bring a photo or headshot and resume if available.

Please direct questions to us via our email address: info@bluesprucetheatre.org This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at 978-667-0512.

Roles in ONCE ON THIS ISLAND (note: all actors will be called upon to play additional roles throughout the show):

TI MOUNE A beautiful peasant girl. Age 17-25. Restless and full of energy and optimism, but later is faced with some cruel realities of life in a divided country. Has exciting dance opportunities. Alto Belt, G ( below C ) to E ( 2 above C )
MAMA EURALIE Ti Moune's adoptive mother. Described as an "old peasant." Actor does not have to be age appropriate. Protective and loving; perhaps a little alarmed at her adopted daughter's strong will, and often at odds with Ti Moune while always having her best interest at heart. Alto, F sharp ( below C ) to B ( above C )
TONTON JULIAN Ti Moune's adoptive father. Described as an "old peasant." Actor does not have to be age appropriate. Tonton is a French affectionate term for Uncle. Loving and supportive, goes to great lengths to support his adopted daughter's wishes. Baritone, A ( 2 below C ) to E ( above C )
DANIEL BEAUXHOMME A handsome, aristocratic young man. Romantic interest for Ti Moune. Age 20-28. Sweet and perhaps a bit naive. Low Tenor, or Baritone with light touch - B ( 2 below C ) to F Sharp ( above C )
AGWE God of Water. Commanding voice and presence. Perhaps the peasants' greatest fear next to Papa Ge himself. Baritone, B ( 2 below C ) to E ( above C )
ASAKA Mother of the Earth. Sings "Mama Will Provide." Fickle, as are the rest of the gods, but comes to Ti Moune in a moment of need. Powerful singer. Mezzo Belt, A ( below C ) to E ( 2 above C )
ERZULIE Goddess of Love. One of the main instigators of the events of the story; looked upon fondly by the people, but has her own agenda. Soprano, B ( below C ) to E ( 2 above C )
PAPA GE "Sly Demon of Death." Cunning and manipulative, and feared by the people. The other main instigator of the drama. Vocal range: Baritone, C sharp ( below C ) to G ( above C )
ANDREA DEVEREAUX An elegant and refined young woman. Age 20-28. A bit aloof, but not deliberately cruel. Vocal range: Mezzo, B ( Below C ) to D ( 2 above C )
ARMAND BEAUXHOMME Daniel's stern father. Reminds Daniel of the harsh realities of life. Not deliberately cruel, but determined. Commanding presence. Vocal range: Baritone, A ( 2 below C ) to D ( above C )
LITTLE TI MOUNE A young girl. Besides playing Ti Moune at the beginning of the show, appears frequently to remind audience that it is a story being told to her. Requires some dance (dances with adult Ti Moune at critical part of the play). A fair amount of solo singing and lines. Vocal range: E flat ( above C ) to D Flat ( 2 above C )

REHEARSAL INFORMATION

Rehearsals will begin in late August, and will run several weeknights each week, and at least one weekend afternoon/evening per week. The final rehearsal schedule is TBD. Please be sure to list all conflicts on audition forms so that we can schedule appropriately.

Depending on your role, you may not be required to be present at every rehearsal. The schedule will be planned with care to ensure that you are only called when needed for that particular night's scene work.

All roles come with a stipend/honorarium.

Rehearsals will be held at Watertown Middle School, 68 Waverley Ave, Watertown, MA 02472, except weekend rehearsals, which will be at a separate location TBD. Note that the Middle School is T-accessible. Check your bus listings to see which schedule is appropriate for you if you are traveling by public transportation.

PERFORMANCE DATES

October 7-24, 2010

Evenings TBD - Thursday through Saturday
Matinees TBD - Saturday and Sunday

All performances will be held at the Arsenal Center For The Arts in Watertown, MA
http://www.bluesprucetheatre.org/