Staff Report
Jackson County Community Theatre will have auditions for its Christmas-season production of Victor Herbert’s classic musical, “Babes in Toyland,” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Sept 25 and 26 at Brownstown United Methodist Church, 110 N. Poplar St.
Show dates are Dec. 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10. Those trying out should first make sure of their availability on all show dates. Rehearsals will begin the first week of October.
The performance is an updated version by Ken Holamon, with music by Victor Herbert. All of the music and fantasy characters of the classic story are included in the contemporary adaptation: Contrary Mary, Tom-Tom, Little Bo Peep, Boy Blue and their many friends, according to a news release.
Parts are available for adults and children. Six adult men are needed for character parts. One is a non-singing villain. Four others are singing parts: ruffians and a toymaker and his assistant. In addition, a young adult man, age 18 to 30, is needed to play the singing part of the hero. Three adult women are needed for characters of the widow and two others; all are singing parts. Adults also are needed for the chorus of villagers and gypsies, who will sing and dance, and spiders and toy soldiers who dance only. Eight to ten children, ages 6-18, who portray the widow’s children, will need to sing. In addition, a children’s chorus of villagers and elves will need to sing and dance. Female teen or young adult ballerinas are needed to portray the butterfly and toy ballerinas.
Actors will need to present a monologue during the audition. They may bring one of their choice or use one that will be provided. Singers should prepare a song to perform. An accompanist will be available for those who wish to bring music. Following the individual monologues and songs, all will participate in readings from the script.
The show will be directed by John Rohlfing, assisted by Julie Rohlfing.
Anyone wishing to help with the play in a non-acting position may come to tryouts, or contact Jackson County Community Theatre at [email protected], or 812-358-5228. Stage crew members, set builders, light and sound operators, costume builders, prop managers, ushers and concession workers are all needed. No prior experience is needed for acting or any other job.
Tickets for the show will be on sale Nov. 1 at jcct.org, Family Drug in Brownstown, and Artistic Impressions Framing in Seymour.
