Footlighters Theater in Berwyn, Pa is excited to announce open auditions for a unique production of Jason Robert Brown's (The Last 5 Years, 13, Bridges of Madison County) PARADE!
** ESPECIALLY SEEKING AFRICAN AMERICAN MEN AND WOMEN**
In 1913, Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-raised Jew living in Georgia, is put on trial for the murder of thirteen-year-old Mary Phagan, a factory worker under his employ. Already guilty in the eyes of everyone around him, a sensationalist publisher and a janitor's false testimony seal Leo's fate. His only defenders are a governor with a conscience and, eventually, his assimilated Southern wife who finds the strength and love to become his greatest champion. Daring, innovative and bold, Parade is filled with soaring music and a heart-wrenching story, offering a moral lesson about the dangers of prejudice and ignorance that should not be forgotten.
Auditions:
Sunday February 11th 7:00-10pm
Tuesday February 13th 7:00-10pm
The production team seeks a DIVERSE ensemble of men, women, teenagers, and a few select children. African American men and women, and POC are especially encouraged to audition.
All auditioners are asked to prepare one complete musical theatre song in the style of the show, and to bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided. Songs from the show are acceptable, if the auditioner is wishing to be considered for that role in the show. Dress comfortably and be prepared to dance/move. Please bring a current headshot and resume, if possible. There will also be sides available, and anyone wishing to be considering for a named part will be asked to do a cold reading.
Rehearsals are expected to begin the week following auditions, and will run 3 times per week until the show’s opening. Actors will not be called to all rehearsals, however due to the show being extremely ensemble focused, excessive conflicts may not be able to be honored. To be considered for a featured role please bring any known conflicts to auditions.
Character Breakdown:
Leo Frank
Our story's tragic protagonist accused of murder. As National Pencil Factory Superintendent, Leo is neurotic and a serial pessimist. Though married to Lucielle, he is physically and emotionally displaced. A White Jew from the North.
Gender: Male
Age: 25 to 45
Vocal range top: F4
Vocal range bottom: Gb2
Lucille Frank
Gentle and mousy, but resourceful and resilient. Despite her husband's feelings, she is a true Southerner through and through but can see through the deception. A White Jew from Georgia.
Gender: Female
Age: 25-35 (will consider older/younger)
Vocal range top: G3
Vocal range bottom: E5
Judge Roan
Serves as the Judge on the infamous trial. Motivated by bigotry and racism, he is dangerously committed to the ideals of the Confederacy. White Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 60 to 70 (will consider younger actor)
Vocal range top: D4
Vocal range bottom: B2
Hugh Dorsey
Atlanta's District Attorney. He is a devout Christian, who is brute and manipulative at times. Hungry for political success and recognition. White Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 35 to 45 (will consider younger/older actor)
Vocal range top: F4
Vocal range bottom: B2
Gov. John Slaton
As the Governor of Georgia, he is highly concerned with public perception. Flirtatious and fun at times. Strives to maintain his values. White Southerner.
Gender: Male
Age: 35 to 45
Vocal range top: F4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Frankie Epps
A charming and simple man, he is Mary's devoted friend. Playful and flirtatious. White Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 14 to 17 (will consider older actor)
Vocal range top: Bb4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Mary Phagan
A factory worker at the National Pencil Factory who is murdered. She is very innocent but has moments of sassiness and playfulness. White Georgian.
Gender: Female
Age: 13 to 13 (will consider older actress)
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: Eb4
Minnie/Angela
A servant for the Frank/Sloan families. Sassy and a “busy body.” Her testimony helps put also Frank away.
Female
Teen-40s
African American
Mezzo w/ belt
Jim Conley
A cleaning supervisor at National Pencil Factory. Secretly, he is a convict on the run. Pompous showman with a strong build. Black Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 20 to 30 (will consider older/younger actor)
Vocal range top: Bb4
Vocal range bottom: D3
Newt Lee
He is the night watchman at National Pencil Factory. A bit too old to possess the job. Physically intimidating, but a gentle giant. Black Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 50 to 60 (will consider older/younger actor)
Vocal range top: Db4
Vocal range bottom: Bb2
Britt Craig
A washed up reporter who can often be found three sheets to the wind. Weaselly and desperate for his 'big break.' White Georgian.
Gender: Male
Age: 25 to 35
Vocal range top: G4
Vocal range bottom: Eb3
Ensemble
Chain Gang; Factory Girls (Essie, Iola Stover, Monteen); Guards/Policemen (Officer Ivey, Detective Starnes, Mr. Peavy); Residents Of Georgia (Angela, Judge Roan, Jurors, Luther Rosser, Minola Mcknight, Mrs. Phagan, Old Soldier, Reporters, Riley, Sally Slaton, Young Soldier)Tom Watson
Performance Dates:
Jun. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 at 8PM
Jun. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 at 2PM
Footlighters of Berwyn is a membership based organization, all roles are open and non-paid.
Production Team will be led by Melody Dougherty, Director, Richard Lewis, Music Director, Cindy Mack, Stage Manager, Chloé Sierka, Choreographer, Zach Workman, Producer
Please email FootlightersParade@gmail.com to reserve an Audition day/time, or with any questions you may have.
We hope to see you there!
