Sunday, September 27, 2015

'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' at Holmdel Theatre Company

Holmdel Theater Company will present "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," a play adapted from the classic short story by Washington Irving of the same name, in mid-October.


The show features Adeolu Adefarasin as Major Andre/Van Houten, Pamela Banz as the snow maiden, Jeanette Burgoyne as a teen/ghoul, Elena Marie Chalcraft as Judith Gardinier, Tom Cox as Vanderghast, Jim Cusick as Van Tassel, Charles Deitz as Knickerbocker, Ed Estevez as Mr. Vedder, Matthew Giove as Brom Bones/Starkenfaust, Matt Hagberg as Van Bummel/Ghoul, Dave Harris as Brouwer, Kaylin Iannone as Katrina, Kelly Iannone as Mrs. Van Tassel, Sean Mako as Ichabod Crane, Mason McCarthy as Doolittle, Jon Erik Nielsen as Vanderdonk, CJ Nolan as Van Ripper, Tess Reeves as Mrs. Vedder, and Alberta Thompson as Mrs. Van Ripper. It is directed by Melanie Taylor.

The show runs at 8 p.m. October 16, 17, 24, and 30; and at 2 p.m. October 18, 24 and 25. Tickets cost $12 per student, $17 per senior and $22 per other adult. All online orders have a $3 processing fee fee, and all at-the-door purchases have a $1 fee.

To purchase tickets online, click here. The Holmdel Theatre Company is located at the Duncan Smith Theatre at 36 Crawfords Corner Road, Holmdel.

Casting Call: 'A Very Kelsey Christmas'

In less than two weeks, Forté Productions of Kelsey Theater will hold auditions for "A Very Kelsey Christmas".

Harkening back to the Christmas specials of the 60’s and 70’s, the show will feature solos, group numbers, and variety acts in the framework of a television broadcast, complete with studio cameras, monitors and an applause sign.  While the focus of the show will be Christmas, all songs of the season will be considered.

Director John Zimmerman and musical director Peter de Mets seek singers, actors, and dancers to fill a variety of roles ranging from St. Nick to the Kelsey Singers Chorus.

Auditionees should prepare a Christmas carol. An accompanist will be provided.

Auditions will run from 1-4 p.m. October 10 and from 2-5 p.m. October 11. Performances will occur at 8 p.m. December 12 and at 2 p.m. December 13.

To schedule an audition, contact VeryKelseyChristmas@gmail.com. To suggest skits or musical numbers that might fit with this type of show, contact the director at president@fortedrama.org.

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Casting Call: 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'

A Charlie Brown Christmas" was first shown as an animated television special in 1965, when its child voice actors and upbeat jazz score by Vince Guaraldi made it a surprise hit with audiences, and turned into a regular feature of the Christmas holiday ever since.

Hedgehog and Feather Theatre Co. will hold auditions for the stage adaptation of this Christmas classic in just a few days. They are seeking those in grades 5-10.

Auditionees should wear appropriate clothing for the dance audition, and are recommended to familiarize themselves with the Christmas special. They should also be prepared to sing the songs "Oh, Come All Ye Faithful", "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing". They will be asked to read from sides.

Rehearsals will be held on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday evenings. Auditions will be held 6:30-9:30 p.m. September 28; auditionees must have no conflicts December 7 through 12. Performances will be December 11 and 12.

For sides or for more information, click here. For further information, contact info@hedgehogandfeather.org. Auditions will be held in the Parish Center of Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 512 Westfield Avenue, Westfield, through the glass door entrance to the left of the main entrance.

Casting Call: 'The Hot L Baltimore'

Westfield Community Players will hold auditions for "The Hot L Baltimore" around this time next month.

The show is set in the lobby of a dilapidated old hotel. Despite its run-down, sometimes repulsive nature, however, the hotel's inhabitants each have a very personal relationship to the Hotel Baltimore and to their neighbors living in it. The play is comprised of a series of conversations between the residents of the hotel, who are contemplating an uncertain future after the hotel is condemned and scheduled for demolition.

Auditionees should bring a resumé and be prepared to read from sides.

Mrs. Belotti (50s)Mrs. Bellotti is the mother of a former tenant. Described as a whiner and complainer, she tells the audience that her husband just had a leg amputated because of diabetes. When Katz makes it clear that her son will not be allowed to return, she goes upstairs and begins to pack his belongings.
the Girl (18+)A young prostitute, the Girl is caring and concerned about the other residents. She goes to great effort to help Morse. It is she who tells Jackie that she has bought worthless land.
April Green (30+)A prostitute; described as large, pragmatic, quick to laugh, pretty, and foul-mouthed. Protective of Suzy.
Jackie (20+)A hustler traveling with her brother, Jamie. She needs money and tries to get Katz to co-sign a loan so they can go Utah to grow health foods on a worthless piece of land she has bought. She steals jewelry from Morse's room, but is caught and ordered to leave. She tells Jamie that she is going to buy gas, but never returns to pick him up.
Jamie (20+)Jackie's brother. A bit slow. In the last act, Jamie is abandoned by his sister, who simply drives off and leaves him to manage on his own.
Mr. Katz (35+)The hotel manager. A balding, tired man. Gives the residents one month's notice because the hotel is to be torn down.
Bill Lewis (30+)The night clerk at the hotel. He has a difficult time communicating and covers by talking too loudly. Bill is interested in the Girl and is more tolerant with her than the other hotel employees.
Millie (50+)A retired waitress. Considered eccentric, she believes in ghosts and lives in a world more imagined than real.
Paul Granger (20+)A college student who was arrested for selling drugs. He has recently been released from a work farm, and comes to the hotel to look for his grandfather.
Mrs. Oxenham (~45)Day desk clerk. Quick speaking with no commerce.
Suzy (~30)A prostitute. Hopelessly romantic, but hard as nails.
Mr. Morse (~70)Craggy with a high cracking voice. He has much energy and outrage in spite of moving slowly.

In addition to those listed above, there are three minor characters: Suzy's John, a cab driver, and a delivery boy.

Auditions will be held from 6:30-9:00 p.m. October 20 and 22. Performances will run at 8 p.m. January 9, 16, 22 and 23; and at 2 p.m. January 17. If auditionees wish, they may submit an audition form in advance.

Westfield Community Players is located at 1000 North Avenue West, Westfield.

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

'Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike' at Westfield Community Players

"Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike" will open next weekend at Westfield Community Players.

Vanya and his adopted sister Sonia live a quiet life in the Pennsylvania farmhouse where they grew up, but their peace is disturbed when their movie star sister Masha returns unannounced with her twenty-something boy toy, Spike. A weekend of rivalry, regret, and raucousness begins.

The show features Garry Tamburro as Vanya, Sharon McGuire as Sonia, Debbie Badal as Masha, Ross Pohling as Spike, Melissa Mugica as Nina, and Vikki Massulli as Cassandra. It is directed by Linda Viel.

The show will run at 8 p.m. October 3, 10, 17, 23, and 24; and at 2 p.m. October 18. Tickets cost $20 per adult and $10 per student or active military personnel.

To reserve tickets, click here or call (908)232-1221. For information regarding ticket purchase, click here. It is important to note that tickets not claimed and paid for 15 minutes before curtain may be sold. Westfield Community Players is located at 1000 North Avenue West, Westfield.

Seeking Volunteers for Disabled Cast

Youth Stages of Kelsey Theater is seeking volunteers to assist the actors in the VSA NJ fall production of "The Secret Garden".

There are sixteen adult actors with various disabilities. Volunteers are sought to work backstage, assisting the actors with entrances and exits so they do not miss cues, and helping them with minor costume changes. A one-on-one match is ideal. The volunteers will also help with set changes.

Volunteers need to be available from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 5 at Project Freedom, Hamilton; and also from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 9-12 at Kelsey Theater, with Nov. 12 being the evening of the performance.

Those interested should contact Jean Prall Rosolino either by emailing manager@youthstages.com or by calling (609)430-9000. Kelsey Theater is located on 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

World of Warcraft Party and Capital Campaign Fundraiser at Circle Players

Circle Players invites you to an immersive themed party to complement its first offering of the 2015-16 season, “In Love and Warcraft.”

This comedy written by Madhuri Shekar filters the romantic ups and downs of college through the popular online role-playing game “World of Warcraft.” Not sure what ‘World of Warcraft’ is? Then come learn about it and celebrate with the theatre at a special preshow event.

There will be a talk on the history, races, and terminology associated with the game as a crash course to get you ready for the show. After the chat, there will be a group game called "Werewolf", with unique "World of Warcraft" prizes for the winners. Pizza, salad, and soda will be provided.

Also, if you really want to get into the Warcraft spirit, there will be a costume contest. All those who come in costume will get a chance to win a "World of Warcraft" prize. Costumes may be of any genre, but weaponry and overly large or distracting costumes will not be allowed in the theater and must be left in the lobby or returned to your car before the show. We also ask that if you remain in costume, you sit in the section of the house directly across from the entrance onto the stage.

This fundraiser is part of our “Raise the Roof” capital campaign, with all proceeds going toward the installation of a new roof for the theatre next summer.

The party is at 5 p.m. on Sept. 26. Tickets for the party are $10 and may only be purchased at the door via cash or check. Tickets for Saturday’s performance of "In Love and Warcraft" are available online at $17 via major credit cards, or at our box office window for $18 with cash or check only.

Casting Call: 'Dinner With Friends'

DinnerWithFriendsCircle Players will hold auditions for Donald Marguiles' "Dinner With Friends."

Auditions will be hold on Sept. 28 and 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the theatre. Please bring a headshot and resume. Sides will be provided. Callbacks will be on Sept. 30.

Two men and two women in their 30s are needed are needed to play Karen, Beth, Gabe, and Tom.

In their Connecticut home, Karen and Gabe, international food writers, are giving a dinner for their married best friends, Beth and Tom. Beth arrives alone, and It soon emerges that Tom has left her for another woman. Gabe and Karen are almost as crushed as Beth is, having expected ‘to grow old and fat together, the four of us.’ Sides are taken and defenses are made – but the real turmoil brewing is between Karen and Gabe, who suddenly find their faith in their own marriage shaken to the core.

"Dinner With Friends" won the 2000 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Performances run from Nov. 20 to Dec. 6.

The show is directed by Tin Frascatore.

Circle Players is located at 416 Victoria Ave Piscataway, NJ 08854 If you have any questions, please email us at circleplayersnj@gmail.com.

Monday, September 21, 2015

'The Effects of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds' at Villagers Theatre

Villagers Theatre's VIP series presents the play "The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds."

The show performs at 8 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays, and runs from Oct. 1 to Oct. 11. There will no performance Oct. 8. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. No group rates or discounts are available.

Frowzy, acid-tongued, supporting herself and her two daughters by taking in a decrepit old boarder, Beatrice Hunsdorfer wreaks a petty vengeance on everybody around her. One daughter, Ruth, is a pretty but highly strung girl subject to convulsions; while the younger daughter, Matilda, plain and almost pathologically shy, has an intuitive gift for science. Encouraged by her teacher, Tillie undertakes a gamma ray experiment with marigolds that wins a prize at her high school-and also brings on the shattering climax of the play. Proud and yet jealous, too filled with her own hurts to accept her daughter's success, Beatrice can only maim when she needs to love and deride when she wants to praise. Tortured, acerbic, slatternly, she is as much a victim of her own nature as of the cruel lot that has been hers. And yet, as Tillie's experiment proves, something beautiful and full of promise can emerge from even the most barren, afflicted soil. This is the timeless lesson of the play and the root of its moving power and truth.

The show is produced by Fearless Productions, directed by Brian Remo, and written by Paul Zindel.

erformance Dates/Times: Opens: Thursday, October 1, 2015 Closes: Sunday, October 11, 2015 First Week Thursday/Friday/Saturday 8:00pm Sunday 2:00pm Second Week Same as above except no Thursday Show Ticket Prices: General Admission $20 Adult ~ $15 Senior/Student No Group Rates or Discounts are available Description:  Producer/Director/Stage Manager: Produced by: Fearless Productions, LLC Learn More or Buy Tickets at: www.villagerstheatre.com

Casting Call: 'A Christmas Peter Pan'

Villagers Theatre will old auditions for their production of "A Christmas Peter Pan."

Auditions are from 7 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 5 and 6. Sides will be provided. Please come prepared to dance. Callbacks are from 7 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 7.

Captain Hook is at it again! No longer satisfied with disrupting the peace in Neverland, he has decided to take a "stab" at ruining Christmas. His plan includes preventing Santa from making his deliveries, capturing Peter Pan to keep him from interfering with Part One of the plan, and, for extra-bad measure, scattering all the toys out over the frozen North Pole landscape. Now it's up to Tinker Bell and those darling kids, Wendy, Michael and John (with a little help from the audience), to save the day.

Roles are:

Peter Pan Male or female, age range 16-20
Snow Fairies Four people needed; Male or female, age range 10-16
Wendy Female, age range 16-20
Santa's Elves Four people needed; Male or female, age range 10-16
John Male, age range 10-15
Pirates Three people needed; male or female, age range 10-16
Michael Male, age range 5-10
My Little Ponies Two people needed; female, age range 5-10
Nana/Crocodile Adult
Lost Toys Five people needed; male or female, adult
Mother Female, adult
Father Male, adult
Tinker Bell Female, age range 10-15
Captain Hook Male, adult
Smee Male, adult
Santa Claus Male, adult


Rehearsals will begin Oct. 8 and end Dec. 11. The show will perform from Dec. 12 to Dec. 20. at noon on Saturdays and Sundays and 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

The show is directed by Tina Lee, produced by Paul Carver, and stage managed by Melissa Noble.

For further information, please email paul@villagerstheatre.com or call (732) 666-7294.

Monday, September 14, 2015

Cast Sought for 'August: Osage County'

PinnWorth Productions of Kelsey Theater is seeking men to audition for their production of "August: Osage County."

Those interested in auditioning should prepare a 2-3-minute monologue reflecting the character for which they wish to audition.

Callbacks, which will double as auditions for these purposes, will occur at 7 p.m. September 16. The first rehearsal will be held at the same time the 28th; the show will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays January 8-17.

Character breakdowns can be found at our earlier post here. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, contact august_osagecounty@yahoo.com. Kelsey Theater is located on the Mercer County Community College campus at 1200 Old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

'Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike' at Westfield Community Players

"Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike" will run this October at Westfield Community Players.

Vanya and his adopted sister Sonia live a quiet life in the Pennsylvania farmhouse where they grew up, but their peace is disturbed when their movie star sister Masha returns unannounced with her twenty-something boy toy, Spike. A weekend of rivalry, regret, and raucousness begins.

The show features Garry Tamburro as Vanya, Sharon McGuire as Sonia, Debbie Badal as Masha, Ross Pohling as Spike, Melissa Mugica as Nina, and Vikki Massulli as Cassandra. It is directed by Linda Viel.

The show will run at 8 p.m. October 3, 10, 17, 23, and 24; and at 2 p.m. October 18. Tickets cost $20 per adult and $10 per student or active military personnel.

To reserve tickets, click here or call (908)232-1221. For information regarding ticket purchase, click here. It is important to note that tickets not claimed and paid for 15 minutes before curtain may be sold. Westfield Community Players is located at 1000 North Avenue West, Westfield.

Casting Call: 'A Charlie Brown Christmas'

“A Charlie Brown Christmas" was first shown as an animated television special in 1965, when its child voice actors and upbeat jazz score by Vince Guaraldi made it a surprise hit with audiences, and turned into a regular feature of the Christmas holiday ever since.

Hedgehog and Feather Theatre Co. will hold auditions for the stage adaptation of this Christmas classic in a couple of weeks. They are seeking those in grades 5-10.

Auditionees should wear appropriate clothing for the dance audition, and are recommended to familiarize themselves with the Christmas special. They should also be prepared to sing the songs "Oh, Come All Ye Faithful", "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing". They will be asked to read from sides.

Rehearsals will be held on Sunday afternoons and Wednesday evenings. Auditions will be held 6:30-9:30 p.m. September 28; auditionees must have no conflicts December 7 through 12. Performances will be December 11 and 12.

For sides or for more information, click here. For further information, contact info@hedgehogandfeather.org. Auditions will be held in the Parish Center of Holy Trinty Catholic Church at 512 Westfield Avenue, Westfield, through the glass door entrance to the left of the main entrance.

Saturday, September 12, 2015

Casting Call: 'A Christmas Story'

Papermill Playhouse will hold open child auditions for their production of "A Christmas Story."

The theatre is looking for children ages 9 to 13 who sing well and tap dance.

Auditions will be held on Oct. 3 at Pearl Studios in New York City. Sign ups will start at 9 a.m. Bring sheet music, tap and jazz shoes, and a head shot and resume (stapled together). All children will be taught a section of a song from the show that they will then sing for their initial audition. Callbacks will be the same afternoon and will require dancing. You will also sing a song of your own at this point.

Roles are:

Flick/Ensemble

Boy, any ethnicity, to play 10–13. Children’s chorus with chorus part of Flick. He’s the kid who gets his tongue stuck to the pole. In this version, he will sing a song with his tongue “stuck” to a flag pole. Must also carry one or two production numbers. Tough on the outside but a little boy on the inside. He should be funny – has a lot of laugh lines – and he sings a lot. VOICE: Belter (unchanged voice) low B to high C#. Tap skills a plus.

Schwartz/Ensemble

Boy, any ethnicity, to play 10–13. Children’s chorus with chorus part of Schwartz. Seeking a young kid who is comfortable on stage but still real. He’s the kid who “double dog dares” Flick to stick his tongue to the flag pole. Tough on the outside but a little boy on the inside. He should be funny – has a lot of laugh lines – and he sings a lot. VOICE: Belter (unchanged voice) low B to high C#. Tap skills a plus.

Grover Dill/Ensemble

Boy, any ethnicity, to play 10–12. Children’s chorus with chorus part of Grover. Farcus’s sidekick. He is smaller than Scut and has a "Napoleon Complex." He compensates for his shortcomings with extreme meanness. Like Farcus, a bad egg. VOICE: Belter (unchanged voice) low B to high C#. Must be able to tap.

Mary Beth/Ensemble

Girl, any ethnicity to play 9–12. Children’s chorus. Must be a high belter. Sings from a low B to high D#. Must be a strong/engaging performer. Must be able to tap.

Esther Jane/Ensemble

Girl, any ethnicity, to play 9–12. Children’s chorus. Must be a high belter. Sings from a low B to high D#. Must be a strong/engaging performer. Must be able to tap.

Ensemble Girls

Females, all ethnicities, to play 9–12. Children’s chorus. Great voices, engaging performers. Must be able to tap.

Ensemble Boys Males, all ethnicities, to play 9–12. Children’s chorus. Must have an unchanged voices; engaging performers. Must be able to tap.

Rehearsals begin on Oct. 25 and the show runs from Nov. 25 to Jan. 3. Everyone must be available for all rehearsals and performances.

The show will be directed by Brandon Ivie, choreographed by Mara Newbery Greer, musically directed by Ben Whiteley, and cast by Rachel Hoffman. The show is written by Joseph Robinette and Benj Pasek.

Open Auditions for the Paper Mill Playhouse Broadway Show Choir

Paper Mill Playhouse will hold open auditions for their Broadway Show Choir. 

The choir consists of 40 to 50 singers and dancers between ages 16 and 22. The choir performs frequently in and out of the community. 

Auditions are at 5 p.m. on Oct. 4 and 6 p.m. on Oct. 5 and 6. They are by appointment only. Please call (973) 315-1640 or email jzeitoun@papermill.org to arrange an appointment. For auditions, please prepare 32 bars of a pop/rock song or an upbeat musical theater piece that demonstrates your vocal range. Please bring sheet music in the correct key in a binder or single sheet. An accompanist ill be provided. You may not perform a capella or to an audio recording. You will be asked to learn a short dance, so please wear appropriate footwear.

The choir is directed by Shayne Austin Miller, with musical direction by Matt Lowy, dance direction by Joshua Schnetzer, vocal coaching by Viraj Lal, management by John Zeitoun, and musical consultation by Meg Zervoulis.

You can watch a former choir perform here.

Casting Call: 'The Piano Lesson'

McCarter Theatre will hold open child auditions for "The Piano Lesson."

The theatre needs an African American girl between the 8 and 13 for the role of Maretha.

There will be in person sign-ups at the theatre on Sep. 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The theatre will give out information about auditions, rehearsals, and performances, as well as answer any questions you may have. Parents will then be able to sign up their children for an audition slot. You’ll go home with all of the information you’ll need for auditions. If you are unable to attend the in person sign ups, online signups begin here September 20. If this does not work for you, call the theatre at (609) 258-6505 and an appointment will be arranged.

After you register online, we’ll give you a call with your child’s specific appointment time and follow up with a confirmation email containing their audition material and the audition location. No auditions will be given without an appointment. Auditions will take place on September 28. Rehearsals will begin Dec. 11 and the show runs from Jan. 8 to Feb. 7.

You can view the rehearsal schedule here, and requirements and guidelines here.

If you have any questions or comments, please email casting@mccarter.org.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Casting Call: 'A Christmas Carol'

McCarter Theatre will hold open child auditions for their annual production of "A Christmas Carol."

There will be in person sign-ups on September 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the theater. Information about auditions, rehearsals, and performances will be available, and you can ask any questions you have. Parents will then be able to sign up their children for an audition slot. If you can not attend the in person sign-ups, you will have the opportunity to sign up for the remaining slots online beginning September 20. Afterwards, you will receive a call from the theater to verify the time, and then send an email containing the audition material and appointment. No auditions will be given without an appointment. If you have difficulty with this call the theater at (609) 258-6505 and they'll make an appointment.

Fourteen children are needed, ranging from the age of 5 to 13. You must be inside of that age range by the time of the performances in order to audition. The auditions will take place on September 29 & 30, and callbacks are October 3. Rehearsals will begin November 10, and performances begin November 10.

Roles are:

Belinda Cratchit  6-10
Martha Cratchit  10-13
Christmas Pasts 1, 2, and 3  8-13
Ensemble Girls  6-12
Female Fezziwig Dancer  12-13
Tiny Tim  5-8
Boy Scrooge  9-12
Peter Cratchit  11-13
Ensemble Boys  6-13

Here are some tips from the theater to young auditionees, here is the rehearsal schedule, and here are the requirements and guidelines for the auditions.

 If you have any questions or comments, please email casting@mccarter.org.

'In Love and Warcraft' at Circle Players

In_Love_warcraft_logoMadhuri Shekar's "In Love and Warcraft" opens next Friday at Circle Players.

The show, directed by Alicia Harabin, will perform at 8 p.m on Fridays and Saturdays from Sep. 18 to Oct. 3, and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 4. Tickets are $18 for adults and $17 for seniors and students.

Evie Malone – gamer girl, college senior and confirmed virgin – has it all figured out. Not only does she command a top-ranked guild in Warcraft with her online boyfriend, she also makes a little cash on the side writing love letters for people who’ve screwed up their relationships. Love is like Warcraft, after all. It’s all about strategies, game plans, and not taking stupid risks. Well, that’s what she thinks… until she actually falls for a guy. In Real Life. And no amount of gaming expertise will help her out when she finds herself with a non-virtual, totally real, and incredibly cute boyfriend, who wants more from her than she’s willing to give.

The show stars Rebecca Shuster as Evie, Carmen Reategui as Kitty, Victor Martinez as Raul, Michael Stratton as Ryan, and Shawna Lagan and Scott Morris in the ensemble.

Thursday, September 10, 2015

'9 to 5' at Somerset Valley Players

'9 to 5' the musical opens this weekend at Somerset Valley Players.

Performances begin at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. The show runs from September 11 to October 4. Tickets are $22 for adults and $20 for seniors/students.

Based on the classic film starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin, "9 to 5" follows three average women working in an office for a sexist and obnoxious boss. However, several fantasies are carried to life, and events unfold that change the lives of all the office workers- and the boss.

The show is directed by Christian Carrara, and is written by Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick.

Somerset Valley Players to Honor Perry Nominees and Announce 2016 Season

Somerset Valley Players will open its doors this Saturday for some announcements.

On September 12, the theatre will open it's doors at 2 pm to announce it's 2016 season and celebrate the 2015 Perry Nominees from the theatre.

This years' nominees are director Todd Bennington, lighting designer Brent Kowalenko, sound designer Daniel Schulze, costume designers Laurie Wood, Matthre Muccigrossi, Danny Muccigrossi, Grace Gossier, Rachel Estabrook, and Dorian Estanislau, properties manager, producer, and set designer Crystal Coddington, properties manager Kayla Elyse, set designer Emily Russoniello, actors Lauren Hackett, Felicity Howard, Max Miller, Dillon Spear, and Kieran McKenna, and stage manager Tennant Trainor.

Light refreshments will be served. The event will take place at the theatre, located at 689 Amwell Road, in Hillsborough, NJ.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Casting Call: 'Zombie Prom'

Kelsey Theater will hold auditions for the off-Broadway musical "Zombie Prom" this Saturday.

The show is set in the atomic 1950s at Enrico Fermi High, where the law is laid down by a zany, tyrannical principal. Pretty senior Toffee has fallen for the class bad boy. Family pressure forces her to end the romance, and he charges off on his motorcycle to the nuclear waste dump. He returns glowing and determined to reclaim Toffee's heart. He still wants to graduate, but most of all he wants to take Toffee to the prom. The principal orders him to drop dead while a scandal reporter seizes on him as the freak du jour. History comes to his rescue while a tuneful selection of original songs in the style of '50s hits keeps the action rocking across the stage.

Auditionees should prepare 16 bars of music in the style of the show and wear clothes comfortable for dancing in. Auditions will take place 11 a.m.-4 p.m. September 12; callbacks will occur September 14. Additional singing, dancing, and reading from the script may be requested. Audition appointments are highly encouraged. Auditionees must be at least 12 years old by February.


Delilah Strict (35-50, mezzo-soprano belt, G33-A5)The school principal; icy and hard on the outside with a heart of gold. Should have good comic timing; think Carol Burnett or Bette Midler.
Toffee (HS student, Soprano Belt, F3-E5)A good girl from the right side of the tracks. Hopelessly in love with Jonny. Sweet and funny; think Gidget or Sandra Dee.
Jonny Warner (HS student,
rock tenor, C3-C5)
A good kid from the wrong side of the tracks. Sincere and funny. Think Ross from "Friends."
Candy (HS student , mezzo belt, F3-G5)Nervous and hyper; always chewing her nails. Think a young Marge Simpson.
Coco (HS student, soprano belt, F3-G5)Coco isn't bad, she's just drawn that way. Think Jessica Rabbit with a dry wit.
Ginger (HS student, soprano belt, F3-G5)Class nerd. Sweet and means well, but verges on annoying. Think comedic Emma Stone, Amy Schumer, or Kristen Wiig.
Joey (HS student, tenor, E3-F4)Class jock. Big, handsome and dumb. Think "duh..."
Josh (HS student, tenor, E3-Eb4)The class geek. Aspiring journalist. Think Pee Wee Herman without the weird voice.
Jake (HS student, rock tenor, E3-F4)Would probably be voted most popular. He's sweet and personable and is deeply in love with Candy. Think Cory from "Boy Meets World."
Eddie Flagrante (35-50, baritone, D3-Ab4)An opportunistic tabloid reporter who roots for the underdog and "justice" in the end. Think Geraldo Rivera with Kevin Klein's comic appeal.
ChorusCovered from within the cast: Assorted parents, secretaries, copyboys, TV floor workers and singers.

Rehearsals will be 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays Sept 26-Dec 26. In January, there will also be some weekday rehearsals. Not everyone will be called to all rehearsals. Performances will be at 8 p.m. Feb. 5 and 6 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 6 and 7.

The show will be directed by Dan Spalluto. It is being put on by Kelsey Theatre Players and Tomato Patch Performing Arts Workshops.

For more information, or to make an appointment, contact KelseyZombieProm@gmail.com. Kelsey Theater is located on the Mercer County Community College Campus at 1200 old Trenton Road, West Windsor.

Casting Call: 'Matt & Ben'

Dragonfly Multicultural Arts Center will hold auditions for "Matt & Ben" this Friday.

The show is about Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, two Hollywood people who wrote Good Will Hunting. It posits that they did not actually write the movie, but it instead fell from the sky into their laps. Basically, the show is about two friends and what they do when the best script they’ve ever seen magically appears in their living room.

Two women, aged 21-50, are sought to play Matt and Ben. Auditionees should prepare a contemporary comedic dialogue and be prepared to read from sides.

Matt, a careerist young actor, looks like he has walked right off the Harvard campus. He is intelligent, sensitive, and moral, but also extremely ambitious. The actor playing this role also plays a short scene as JD Salinger. An actor able to play guitar and sing is ideal for this part.

Ben, the "Oscar" of this odd couple, tends toward the part of a typical frat boy. He gets by on his natural looks and charm, and often tries to take the shortcut. The actor in this role also plays a scene as Gwyneth Paltrow. Both characters are in their mid-20s.

Auditions will occur 3-6 p.m. September 12 and 12-4 p.m. September 13 in the Forum Theatre Blue Room. Performances will occur October 30 and 31, with probable performances at the Jersey Shore November 13 and 14.

For more information, contact dragonflyartsnj@gmail.com.

Monday, September 7, 2015

Casting Call: 'Bat Boy: The Musical'

Next week, Edison Valley Playhouse will hold auditions for "Bat Boy: The Musical," a show inspired by a series of tabloid headlines published in 1992 by The Weekly World News claiming that a terrifying creature, half-man and half-bat, had been discovered in a cave, escaped, and was being pursued by government officials.

A group of spelunking West Virginian teenagers discover Bat Boy near Hope Falls. For lack of a better solution, the local sheriff brings him to the home of the town veterinarian, Dr. Parker, where he is eventually accepted as a member of the family, named "Edgar," and taught to act like a "normal" boy by the veterinary surgeon's wife, Meredith, and teenage daughter, Shelley. Edgar is happy with his new life, but when he naively tries to fit in with the narrow-minded people of Hope Falls, they turn on him, prodded by the machinations of Dr. Parker, who secretly despises Edgar. He and Shelley, who have fallen in love, run away together from the ignorant townsfolk and have a blissful coupling in the woods. Their happiness is shattered, however, when Meredith arrives and reveals the dark story of his unholy origin.

Auditionees should prepare 32 measures of a contemporary musical theater piece, for which an accompanist will be provided; a resumé; and a headshot. Only those called back will need to dance. Auditionees must be at least 18 years old. Auditions will take place from 7-10 p.m. September 14 and 15; callbacks will be held September 16 as needed. Those interested in auditioning who are unable to make it September 14 and 15 but are available the 16th should contact the director to see if they can be accomodated.

The director seeks a diverse cast of ten who excel at singing, dancing, and acting with extremely secure vocal technique in Legit and Contemporary styles and an solid understanding of comedy. Four of the character arrangements are listed in the table below; the rest are beneath.

Bat Boy/Edgar
(18-22, B2-A4 [falsetto to E5], tenor)
A human-bat hybrid who develops from a primitive, unrefined creature to a well-rounded and civilized human.
Shelley Parker
 (18-22, Ab2-Ab4
[+ raps], soprano)
The Parker's rebellious daughter. Transforms from a spoiled brat who taunts Bat Boy into a young woman who falls in love with him and protects him from the town's wrath. This actor also plays Woman 1.
Meredith Parker (35-50, F2-F4, mezzo-soprano)Shelley's mother, the epitome of the perfect housewife. Holds a dark secret. This actor also plays Woman 2.
Dr. Thomas Parker (35-55, Ab2 - A4, tenor)The town veterinarian; grows to secretly despise Edgar. Driven mad by his hatred and jealousy, he manipulates the situation using his veterinarian skills to his advantage, even at the cost of human life. This actor also plays Man 3.
Actor 5 (male) will play Sheriff Reynolds, an animal, and Man 4. Actor 6 (male) will play Rick Taylor, Lorraine, Mr. Dillon, an animal, and Man 5. Actor 7 (female) will play Ruthie Taylor, Ned, an animal, and Woman 3. Actor 8 (female) will play Ron Taylor, Mayor Maggie, Clem, an animal, and Woman 4. Actor 9 (male) will play Rev. Hightower, Mrs. Taylor, Roy, Institute Man, an animal, and Man 2. Actor 10 (male) will play Bud, Daisy, Pan, a doctor, and Man 1.

The show is directed by Christopher J. Guell. Performances will be October 3 through November 7.

For more information, click here. Edison Valley Playhouse is located at 2196 Oak Tree Road, Edison.

'I Do! I Do!' at Edison Valley Playhouse

"I Do! I Do!" will open this Friday at Edison Valley Playhouse.

A period piece spanning 50 years beginning in 1898, the show begins with Michael and Agnes on their wedding day. Their vows behind them, they look forward to spending the rest of their lives together. The audience watches as they go through their wedding night jitters, raise a family, and negotiate mid-life crises. Michael eventually admits to his infidelity, and although Agnes is angered by his actions, she forgives him and the couple reconciles, rediscovering how much they really need each other. Then, after 50 years of marriage, the couple leaves their house to the next pair of newlyweds. The show stars Craig Tiede and Juliana Valente and is directed by Zita Geoffroy-Heinz.

The show will run at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Sep. 11-26 and at 2 p.m. Sep. 20. Tickets cost $20 per adult and $15 per student, senior, or military personnel.

To reserve tickets for pickup and payment the night of the show, call (908)755-4654 and leave your name, phone number, date of the performance you wish to attend, and number of tickets; there will only be a responding call if there is a problem with the reservation. To reserve and pay for tickets online for pickup the night of the show, click here. Edison Valley Playhouse is located at 2196 Oak Tree Road, Edison.

'The Producers' at Playhouse 22

It's a musical about making the world's worst musical: Mel Brooks' "The Producers" will open at Playhouse 22 this Friday.

The show starts out with Max Bialystock, a down and out Broadway producer whose latest work flopped on opening night. His fortunes change when downtrodden accountant Leo Bloom, discovers there is money to be made in Max’s theatrical failure. As a result, the two formerly-defeated businessmen unite with the goal of creating the worst musical possible. The plot develops as the duo enlists the help of ridiculous and often farcical characters along the way, such as former Nazi and ongoing Third Reich enthusiast Franz Liebkind; Ulla, the blonde bombshell secretary/receptionist; and the flamboyant homosexual director Roger De Bris. As a result of the characters' combined brainpower and ludicrous behavior, "Spring Time for Hitler" is born on Broadway.

The show features Roman Sohor as Max Bialystock, Dan Peterson as Leo, Hannah Schroeder as Ulla, James Grausam as Roger, Christopher Cantu as Franz, Frank Falisi as Carmen, Jeff Dworkin as Marks, Sarah Braka, Anthony Competello, Christa DiLalo, Jeremiah Grant, Katie Hilosky, Jerome John, Megan Liberty, Caitlyn Manning, Marissa Marciano, Dwight Merritt, Mikayla Petrilla, Mark Piltz, Jr., Leigh Suznovich, Marc Suznovich, Mary Jo Tort Bergeron, and Jenna Zielinski.

The show will run at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays excepting September 19 and at 3 p.m. Sundays and September 26 September 11 to 27. Tickets cost $22 per adult and $20 per student or senior. The ticket price includes a $2 East Brunswick surcharge.

To purchase tickets, click here or call (732)254-3939. Playhouse 22 is located at 721 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick.

Season Subscriptions for Cranford Dramatic Club

Cranford Dramatic Club is now selling season subscriptions for their upcoming season. Shows covered by the subscription include "Born Yesterday," "Green Day's American Idiot," and "The Drowsy Chaperone." Not included are "Rapunzarella White" in December and Junior Theater's "Tarzan: The Musical" in June.

Born Yesterday is a deliciously witty screwball comedy about a corrupt businessman trying to get ahead in Washington. He hires a newspaperman to tutor his brassy girlfriend but gets more than he bargained for when he discovers a little bit of learning can be a dangerous thing. The show runs at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays October 16-24 and at 2 p.m. Oct. 18 and 24.

In the two-time Tony award-winning hit musical "American Idiot," based on Green Day's
Grammy Award-winning multi-platinum album, Johnny, Tunny and Will struggle to find meaning in a post-9/11 world. The rock opera features little dialogue and instead relies on the lyrics from Green Day's groundbreaking album to execute the story line. at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Feb. 12-27 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 21.

With the house lights down, a man in a chair appears on stage and puts on his favorite record: the cast recording of a fictitious 1928 musical. The recording comes to life and "The Drowsy Chaperone" begins as the man in the chair looks on. Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, a bumbling best man, a desperate theater producer, a not-so-bright hostess, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, a misguided Don Juan and an intoxicated chaperone, and you have the ingredients for an evening of madcap delight. at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays May 6-21 and at 2 p.m. May 15.

To purchase a subscription, download the form here, fill it out and send it to PO box 511, Cranford, NJ, 07016. Those with season subscriptions will be able to reserve seats. Cranford Dramatic Club is located at 78 Winans Avenue, Cranford.

'Curtain Call' Fall Theater Class at Cranford Dramatic Club

Cranford Dramatic Club will host their theater program "Curtain Call," this fall. It will last thirteen weeks and culminate in a performance of "Elf Jr."

There are two divisions of the program. "Act One", for those in grades first through fourth, will begin September 21; "Act Two" is for fifth- through eighth-graders and will begin September 23. The two groups will come together for two performances of "Elf Jr." December 19.

The program costs $250 a student, or $225 for Cranford Dramatic Club members. Registration forms can be downloaded here to print and either mail to PO box 511, Cranford, NJ, 07016 or bring to the first session.

For more information, contact megferentinos@yahoo.com. Cranford Dramatic Club is located at 78 Winans Avenue, Cranford.

Casting Call: 'Rapunzarella White'

Cranford Dramatic Club will hold auditions for the fractured-fairy-tale-style "Rapunzarella White" next week.

Herschel the fairy tailor tells the tale of triplets Rapunzel, Cinderella and Snow White, born to Queen Millicent and her slimy Frog Prince, who hopped off long ago. They are torn asunder by a witch’s curse and brought back together by the true love of their princes.

Auditionees should prepare an upbeat, non-pop song and their resumé.

Parts in the show include the narrator, the fairy tailor dwarf Herschel (30s-60s); Queen Millicent, the princesses' mother (30s-50s); the queen's evil sister Witch Winifred, or Winnie (30s-50s); the three princesses Rapunzel, Cinderella, and Snow White (16-25); and their princes the slightly clumsy Burly Bob, Prince Valiant-type Beau, and bookish Barry (16-25). Members of the ensemble will play the princes' father King Rosenbutter (40s-60s), their mother Queen Rhoda (40s-60s); Cinderella's stepmother Gilda (40s-60s); her stepsisters Greta and Gertrude (16-25), and her 'fabulous' fairy god-brother Syd (20s-30s); as well as townsfolk, guests at the ball, fairies, and dwarves (8-80).

Auditions will take place at 7:30 p.m. September 14 and 16. Performances will occur December 4, 5 and 6.

For more information, visit cdctheatre.org. Cranford Dramatic Club is located at 78 Winans Avenue, Cranford.

Saturday, September 5, 2015

Casting Call: 'Miracle on 34th Street'

Miracle on 34th Street LogoSomerset Valley Players will hold auditions for "Miracle on 34th Street."


Auditions will be held at the theater on Sep. 13 and 16 at 7 pm. Readings will be from the script. Singers are needed as carolers. There will be a large ensemble with many doubled roles and all cast members (adults and children) will be offered speaking roles.



Little Susan doesn't believe in Santa Claus. But over the course of this classic story, a Macy's Santa brings the joyous spirit of Christmas to New York City. His gentle and noble spirit converts even the deepest cynics into true believers of miracles.



Roles are:

Doris Walker 30s; Personnel mgr at Macy's
Susan Walker 8-10; Doris' daughter
Fred Gayley 30's-40's; Doris' neighbor and friend
Kris Kringle 50's+; Santa Claus
Elves (6) teenagers; Santa's helpers
Dr. Pierce adult; Kris' physician
Shellhammer adult; Doris' assistant
Sawyer adult; Macy's vocational counselor
Macy adult; Owner of Macy's
Bloomingdale adult; Owner of Bloomingdale's
Judge Harper adult; of the NY State court
Finley adult; Bailiff
Mara adult; Prosecuting attorney
Andy/Annie Mara 8-10; Mara's child
Extensive Ensemble will include many double roles. All cast members will be offered a speaking role. Includes children to see Santa, parents, shoppers, pedestrians, courtroom observers , and carolers, who will be singing between scenes.
Halloran Judge Harper's campagn manager
Duncan Antelope keeper at the zoo
Al/Alice and Lou/Louise Postal employees
Bag Lady At Thanksgiving parade
Rich Person At Thanksgiving parade
Drunken Santa Macy's employee
Contact director Emily Windus via email emilywindus@gmail.com for answers to any questions. For further information call 908.369.7469

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Casting Call: 'The Uninvited'

The Uninvited LogoSomerset Valley Players will hold auditions for Tim Kelly's "The Uninvited."

Auditions will be readings from the script - no monologues. Bring a resume and list of conflicts between the above dates. Contact Darren via email darren@nyetech.com for advance copies of Sides and other questions. Auditions will be held at the Somerset Valley Players Located at 689 Amwell Road, Hillsborough. They will take place on September 14 and 15 from 7 pm to 10 pm.

A charming English seaside cottage may be haunted in this thriller. The new owners are not aware of the cottage's dark past and terror arises from the discovery of a possible murder on the grounds. Locals tell dark tales of the former occupants and the evil spirits that may dwell within.

Roles are:

Stella Meredith
18-21
Charming, sweet, polite and quite vulnerable. Family connected to Cliff End, which is currently owned by her grandfather Commander Brooke.
CommandersBrooke
60s+
Stella's grandfather. Stern, overprotective man, very controlling, and not afraid to show it.
Roddy Fitzgerald
20s-30s
Honest, simple, playwright. Very friendly but a bit of a smartass. New owner of Cliff End. Takes a liking to Stella.
Pamela Fitzgerald 20s-30s Creative, enthusiastic, and intelligent. Lover of the Arts. Sister to Roddy. Also lives at Cliff End with her brother Roddy.
Lizzie
Age Open
Pam and Roddy's housekeeper and family friend. Very loyal and very superstitious. Becomes friends with Mrs. Jessup.
Mrs. Jessup
40s-60s
Loud, nosey neighbor and the town gossip. Personality is a stereotypical southern Baptist woman of color. Becomes friends with Lizzie.
Wendy Carter
20s-30s
Vivacious, sarcastic actress from New York. Breezy, flashy, heavy interest in the paranormal world.
Max Hillard
20s-30s
Comical, beatnik painter from New York. Currently involved with Wendy and protective of her.
Dr. Scott
50s+
Pleasant, honest town doctor. A man of science and facts, not the supernatural.
Miss Holloway 40s+ Glamorous, cold, and slightly sinister. Governess and former nurse of the Meredith family. (This role is for a strong actress, who can command the stage.)
Character development and diversity should bring excitement to both the cast and audience to make this a great experience for all. This play is a thriller, and will involve serious not "campy" acting. However there will be special paranormal effects. Rehearsal schedule will be 2 to 4 mandatory days a week, Mon thru Thu 7:00pm & some weekends plus tech week (specific dates/calls selected after casting).

The show is directed by Darren Nye.

It runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm from October 23 to November 8. For further information call (908) 369-7469.

'The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940' at Villagers Theatre

"The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940" opens at Villagers Theatre this month.

The show opens September 11 and closes September 27. Performances are at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $18 for adults and $16 for seniors and students. Group rates are available.

Poking antic fun at the more ridiculous aspects of "show biz" and the corny thrillers of Hollywood's heyday, "The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940" is a non-stop barrage of laughter as those assembled (or at least those who aren't killed off) untangle the mystery of the "Stage Door Slasher."

There will be an opening night party on September 11 with complimentary refreshments after the performance, if you interested in staying.

The show is written by John Bishop, directed by Judi Parrish, produced by Emily Russoniello and Howard Gross, and stage managed by Beverly Kuo-Hamilton and Madison Whiting, featuring fight choreography by Katie Downey, costumes by Sue Darling, lighting by Suzanne Wengryn, sound design by Judi Parrish, sound operation by Marissa Madison, and sets by Guy Suabedissen, with Simon Hamilton on stage crew.

The cast features Cindy Chair as Helsa Wenzel, Robyn Mandalakis as Elsa Von Grossenknueten, Arthur Pugh as Sergeant Michael Kelly, Ariana Fort as Nikki Crandall, Bobby Marusiefski as Eddie McKuen, Richard Butler as Ken de la Maize, Mike Levine as Roger Hopewell, Laurie Hardy as Bernice Roth, Gordon Wiener as Patrick O'Reilly, amd Allison DiBiase as Marjorie Baverstock.