Long Wharf Holds Auditions for TAMING OF THE SHREW, 7/30

Long Wharf Theatre's education department is holding auditions for a fun new, musical take on William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew.

The production, the first in the theatre's Shake-It-Up Shakespeare summer youth theatre series, is conceived and directed by Long Wharf Theatre Education Director Annie Dimartino. Carol Tauble, who performed with her family on the show "America's Got Talent," will be the musical director.

In a new twist on Shakespeare's vibrant characters, Kate is a tough rocker - think Ani DiFranco, Pat Benetar or Alanis Morissette. Bianca is a sweet pop musician in the vein of Miley Cyrus or Taylor Swift. Baptista, Bianca's manager, says that the only way he will allow Bianca to sign a record deal is if the producer takes the rough-hewn Kate as well. Enter Petruchio, a down-on his luck record executive. Having managed globally dominant bands, it's a bit of come down to teach Kate the ways of the music world. But attempt to teach her he will - and learn quite a bit about himself in the process. The magic of Shakespeare's language will be complimented by a great soundtrack of pop and rock hits.

"I have found through my work in various classrooms, that Shakespeare's themes are easily understood, whether it's first love or what is perceived as parental control. The sticky point is the language with its prithie's or withers or wilts. What I find to be exciting about this project in particular, is the way we are weaving in music that audiences will know and connect with. I'm having fun just exploring the various song options and I think this added element will make this work shopped performance understandable and accessible to everyone involved," Dimartino said.

Auditions will take place July 26-30 at Long Wharf Theatre. Auditioners should be Non-Equity performers between the ages of 14-19 and have prepared a Shakespearean monologue from a comedy (not The Taming of the Shrew) and 32-bars of a contemporary pop song. There is no pay.

The cast will be comprised of seven males and eight females, although there are some opportunities for flexible casting. Performers who can play bass, acoustic or electric guitar are encouraged to audition.

Rehearsals will held Monday through Fridays 1:30 to 4:30 pm beginning Aug. 2. The performances will take place on Aug. 20-21.

For more information, call Dimartino at 203-772-8271 or visit www.longwharf.org.