White Christmas
Director: Alexandria Ingram
Vocal Director: Sharon Shepard
Choreographer: Molly Oros
Please fill out the Audition form here: https://forms.gle/5ajE84XdrFL8YWtw9
Auditions: Sunday, August 13th at 2pm and Monday, August 14th at 7 pm at Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso, Indiana 46383. Callbacks (as needed): Tuesday, August 15th (time TBD).
You are welcome to sing a song of your choice (16 measures or less), preferably in the style/ genre and vocal range of the character you are auditioning for. Please provide sheet music for the accompanist. Acapella auditions will not be accepted. Please bring tap shoes to auditions if you have them.
We also accept video auditions which may be emailed directly to the Production Manager, Vicki Zimmerman: vzimmerman@memorialoperahouse.com
For any questions regarding the audition or production, please contact Madison Marsh at AdminAssistant@memorialoperahouse.com
Performances: November 30th through December 17th (12 performances Thurs. - Sun.).
Rehearsals: Rehearsals begin the week of October 9th at Memorial Opera House. Rehearsals will take place Monday through Thursday from 7 pm to 10 pm. Cast members will not be rehearsing on Thanksgiving Day; however, all are required to attend Tech Sunday on November 26th.
Show Synopsis: Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil's former army commander. With a dazzling score featuring well-known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial title song, White Christmas is an uplifting, wholesome musical that will delight audiences of all ages.
Casting Requirements: All roles are open for those of all identities and ethnicities aged 13 or older. All levels of dancing abilities are encouraged to audition.
We are seeking ~15-20 actors.
Roles:
Bob Wallace – (mid 30’s to early 40’s) – A major singing star, Bob is the guiding force behind the song and dance team of Wallace and Davis. He wears his fame easily but has some trouble with social and romantic interactions. Despite occasional gruffness, he is a deeply kind and principled man who is searching for true love. Excellent singer with a crooning style who moves very well. Tap and Jazz. Baritone.
Phil Davis – (mid 30’s to early 40‘s) – The fun-loving song-and-dance partner of the team Wallace and Davis. An irrepressible clown, operator, and incorrigible ladies’ man who is determined to see his friend happy, even if it requires scheming and outright deception. He has a boyish charm and sex appeal. Strong ballroom, jazz and tap-dancing needed. Baritone tenor.
Betty Haynes – (mid-20’s to late 30’s) – Sensible, responsible half of the Haynes sisters act. Classic elegance. Destined to be a star, but hesitant to take the spotlight. Devoted to her sister. Hides a yearning for true love under a protective shell. Female singer of quiet beauty and charm with a rich chest mix and soprano extension. Must move well.
Judy Haynes – (mid-20’s to mid 30’s) – Younger, more ambitious, and slightly scheming other sister. Wholesome and adorable, sexy, and flirty. Strong jazz and tap dancer. Strong singer with a chest mix.
General Henry Waverly – (late 50’s to mid 60’s) – Retired Army general with a curmudgeonly military exterior, adjusting to retired life in post WW II America. Precise and orderly, struggling to run the Inn in Vermont. A man of integrity. Underneath a warm compassionate man in need of family and love.
Martha Watson – (late 40’s to mid-60’s) – Once a Broadway star, now the General’s housekeeper. The true force behind running the Inn. Very dry wit and frank with a wisecracking sense of humor. Big hearted, but unsentimental. Irrepressible meddler, believing she acts on everyone’s best behalf. Strong singer and mover, Broadway belter.
Susan Waverly – (young girl) – The General’s granddaughter. Lovable and outgoing. A bit precocious, but wise beyond her years. Gets bitten by the stage bug and is great at it. Strong belt.
Ralph Sheldrake – (mid 30’s to early 40’s) – Jokester Army buddy of Bob and Phil’s, now a major television executive. Fast talking, loud, brash New York professional with a good head on his shoulders.
Rita and Rhoda – (mid 20’s to early 30’s) – Bob and Phil’s two-star chorus showgirls. Brash, sexy, and fun. Perhaps not the brightest.
Additional Information: Memorial Opera House Foundation will be offering a stipend of $150 for all performers. This is intended to offset the costs incurred by performers due to gas, childcare, materials for the show, etc. Any questions regarding stipends can be directed to Memorial Opera House, Natalie Klobuchar at nklobuchar@memorialoperahouse.com