MadKap Productions
The Drowsy Chaperone

Pay: Stipend

Description:

Announcing auditions for MadKap Productions presentation of the raucous musical The Drowsy Chaperone. When an avid musical theatre fan puts on the record of the score of his favorite musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, the show miraculously springs to vivid, effervescent life. He serves as our narrative tour guide as the show unfolds within the walls of this small, city apartment. This sly send-up of early American musical comedy is bubbling over with wry wit, spectacular showstoppers and a parade of memorable characters - all served extra dry with a few twists (and a rousing anthem!). Looking to cast all roles. Descriptions are below. NOTE: the ages listed are merely for reference. We are seeking talent, first and foremost. If you are the best for the part, we will make the age work. Auditions are April 30, and May 1 from 6pm-10pm.

Character Descriptions:
Man in Chair: (40s-60s) Narrates the show as he plays the Broadway recording of The Drowsy Chaperone. A music theater aficionado and recluse who mourns the end of the Golden Era, he is truly happiest listening to his collection of Broadway show records. Strong acting skills required to develop what is the only-non-stock character in the show. On stage throughout. Whilst generally shy in demeanor, musicals bring out his true ebullient self. Mannerisms and tics should be funny and charming whilst grounded in reality. Minimal singing in Bari-Tenor range.

Janet Van de Graaff: (25-35) Star of Feldzieg's Follies who is conflicted about giving up her life on the stage to marry Robert Martin. Attractive, vivacious, outgoing personality. She loves being the center of attention and is the consummate 1920s starlet. Strong movement and special skills (acrobatics, juggling, etc.) a plus. Vocal range: Alto with big belt (G3-E5)

Robert Martin: (20-40) The groom-to-be who is deeply in love with Janet. He is the token 1920s leading man - debonair, dashing, and a matinee idol. He is cheesy, cheerful, and optimistic. Must be able to tap dance and roller skate. Vocal range: Tenor (C3 - Ab4)

The Drowsy Chaperone: (30s-50s) Janet's alcoholic confidante. Care-free, often because she is drunk. An experienced "woman of the world" who couldn't care less what the world thinks. A melodramatic diva to be reckoned with who gleefully chews the scenery and steals just about every scene she is in. Great comedic role. Think Liza Minnelli meets Tallulah Bankhead. Vocal range: Alto with STRONG BELT (F3-D5)

Aldolpho: (30 - 40s) Latin lothario. A womanizing cad who is very impressed with himself. He is confident, vigorous, and a buffoon. Vaudeville-style acting and fake Spanish/Italian accent required. Should have great comic timing. Vocal range: Bass/Baritone + great falsetto (A#2-G4)

Mrs. Tottendale: (45-80) A wealthy widow and host of the wedding. She is flighty, eccentric, often times forgetful, and funny. She is absolutely charming, bubbly and oblivious to the confusion her behavior generates in other people. Vocal range: Alto character voice (G3-Db5)

Underling: (30s-60s) Mrs. Tottendale's unflappable butler and manservant. He is stoic, dry-humored and sarcastic. A cross between Arthur Treacher and Niles the butler from The Nanny. Vocal range: Tenor character voice (Ab2-G4)

Mr. Feldzieg: (40s-50s) Harried producer who will do anything to stop the wedding in order to keep Janet in the Follies. He is nervous, sarcastic, impatient, overbearing, and insensitive. Vocal range: Baritone (Db3-Db4)

Kitty: (20's-30s) 1920s dumb blonde chorine. She is Mr. Feldzieg's companion and will do anything to be a leading lady. A cross between Norma Cassady from Victor Victoria and Lena Lamont from Singin' in the Rain. Vocal range: Soprano comedic belt (Bb3-F5)

George: (20-40s) Robert's anxious best man. He is loyal, sincere, and nervous. Makes looking out for Robert's interests his top priority so that the wedding will come off without a hitch. Must be able to tap. Vocal range: Tenor (F3-Bb4)

The Tall Brothers - Gangsters 1 & 2: (20s-30s) Two jovial gangsters who are posing as pastry chefs. Typical 1920s Broadway gangsters full of word play and stylized movements. Good comic timing and movement skills required. Men of a shorter stature encouraged to audition. Vocal range: Tenor (Db3-Gb4)

Trix the Aviatrix: (25-50) The brave and brash female aviator. She is sassy, sleek and a take-charge kind of gal. Preferably an actress of color. Doubles in the ensemble. Vocal range: Alto (Ab3-Eb5)

Ensemble: (20-40) A strong, dancing/singing ensemble consisting of 2 men and 1 woman. Vocal range: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass Dancers with Strong Tap skills.

Time Commitment:

Rehearsals begin end of July - Production dates: Friday September 8, 2017 - October 8, 2017 with Yom Kippur weekend off and a few occasional dates

Performances begin September 8, and run through October 7. Please note: there are NO performances the weekend of September 29. Rehearsals are evenings. Typically 4 times a week. Exact rehearsal schedule TBA. There will be a dance call at callbacks.

Material To Prepare:

Please prepare 32 bars in the 20's style of the show.

Contact Info: