Elgin Summer Theatre to host auditions for rock musical

Elgin Summer Theatre returns with the Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical "Next to Normal," which will run at the Hemmens Cultural Center July 17-19 and July 24-26.

"Next To Normal" explores how one suburban household copes (or doesn't) with crisis and mental illness and takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family's story with love, sympathy and heart.

Dad's an architect; mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal, because the mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years.

This deeply moving piece of theater provides a wonderful opportunity for performers to explore dramatic material and showcase vocal talents with an energetic pop/rock score. "Next To Normal" is an emotional powerhouse that addresses such issues as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life

Auditions for the Elgin-produced musical will be held 7-10 p.m. Monday, May 18, to Wednesday, May 20, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way in Elgin.

Those auditioning should be age 16 and older, and prepare a 60- to 120-second selection of music from the musical "Next To Normal" or a piece in the rock/power ballad genre to perform a capella.

To register for auditions, go to the Elgin Summer Theatre link at www.hemmens.org. Those with questions or interest in volunteering, contact Elgin Summer Theatre at est@cityofelgin.org.

EST is a showcase for local talent in all age ranges and is funded through a grant from the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission and the City of Elgin. Past productions have included "Hair," "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Annie" and "Rent."

Tickets are $15, reserved seating.