Wheaton Drama holds "1776" auditions March 27, 28

Wheaton Drama Inc. is holding auditions for its 2010-2011 season finale,"1776".

With book by Peter Stone, music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards, based on a concept by Sherman Edwards, “1776” is the Tony Award winning musical which follows the weeks leading up to the creation and signing of the Declaration of Independence.

According to the The New York Daily News, "(1776) is by no means a historical tract or a sermon on the birth of this nation. It is warm with a life of its own; it is funny, it is moving..."

Charles A. Berglund, Wheaton Drama's "1776" director, agrees: "Comedy, drama, humor, conflict, romance, history, and exhilaration - '1776' has them all!"

Actors have the opportunity to play such visionaries as John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson. In "1776", all roles are vital and all characters sing and have lines. Mr. Berglund notes: "This rarely done but exciting and worthwhile musical gives actors many opportunities to play historical figures as real human beings with foibles and flaws, but with dedication and commitment in endeavoring to create a new nation."

Mr. Berglund and his production staff are utilizing a process which should make it easy for actors of all levels of experience to audition. As music director William Rush explains, "In directing, coaching and preparing singers and actors for roles for over 40 years, I have found the process to be a lot less nerve wracking and anxiety filled when there were clear directions and well articulated expectations for the auditioners. The director and I have endeavored to put in the hands of those who are auditioning all of the materials needed to successfully negotiate the process."

To that end, musical accompaniments, audio files, and helpful tips from Mr. Rush are all available on the Wheaton Drama website.

For best use of actor's time, auditions are by appointment. Actors at initial auditions will all have the chance to sing, read, and perform simple dance steps (lead by choreographer Harmony Barry). Audition monologues and necessary forms are emailed to actors when they schedule their audition time.

All roles in “1776” are open, and newcomers are welcomed. There are many roles for men, and the ages vary. More information is available at www.wheatondrama.org in the "News and Auditions" section.

Wheaton Drama's Playhouse 111 is located at 111 N. Hale St. in downtown Wheaton. "All My Sons" is playing March 25 through April 17 at the Playhouse. "1776" will be performed May 27 through June 19. Visit www.wheatondrama.org for show tickets and information.