Auditions set for 'Rent School Edition' in Fox Valley
Submitted by Fox Valley Repertory
Auditions are planned for the 1994 groundbreaking musical “Rent School Edition.”
Set in the East Village of New York City, “Rent School Edition” is about falling in love, finding your voice and living for today. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “Rent” has become a pop cultural phenomenon with songs that rock and a story that resonates with audiences of all ages.
This adaptation has been carefully done, working to retain the dramatic intent of the revolutionary rock musical. Changes to language and the removal of one song, “Contact,” make it possible for young actors to perform this piece.
The audition calls for all ethnicities, male and female, ages 13 to 20. Open auditions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, or Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the Congregational United Church of Christ, 40W451 Fox Mill Blvd. in Campton Hills. For more information, visit www.selfoundation.org/rentschooledition.htm.
Young actors and singers are asked to be familiar with the show prior to the audition. Bring an 8- by 10-inch headshot attached to a proper actor's resume. Actors should prepare and memorize a one-minute monologue in the style of the show which portrays the character you are most interested in playing. Do not use a monologue from the show. Also prepare and memorize 32 bars of a song from a similar style show. Bring sheet music; an accompanist will be provided. Do not bring CDs or sing a song from the show. Singing a cappella is not recommended. Freestyle dance audition will be required.
The best possible cast is wanted, and that means being creative with the audition process. Although it is preferred to have actors attend in person, video auditions on YouTube will be accepted for those of you who are out of town. Skype auditions will be accepted after 8 p.m. Nov. 14 or Nov. 16. Email goodynewshoes@aol.com to schedule a time. If you are unable to attend in person, try to be available via Skype between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 for callbacks.
“Rent School Edition” will be presented at 7 p.m. Jan. 13-14, and 3 p.m. Jan. 15. Admission is free.
Director Tracy Whiteside has been directing and teaching theater since 2001, and has directed more than 50 shows with cast ages ranging from 6 to 20. “I am so excited to be directing such a powerful show. ‘Rent' is a tool for social change, and is evidence of the power and potential of the ordinary person. It teaches tolerance and understanding,” Whiteside said.
Music director is Denise Beiermann of Beiermann School of Music. Visit beiermannmusic.com.
“Rent School Edition” is a tuition-based educational theater and music experience.
Interns and musicians are also needed. See below for more information on internships and musicians.
For more information, email goodynewshoes@aol.com or go visit www.selfoundation.org.
An important component of the educational experience, they welcome interns for directing, stage management, choreography, music, vocal, set design, lighting, props and costumes. Email goodynewshoes@aol.com with a cover letter and resume if you are interested.
“Annie” auditions will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, or from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Preservation Hall A Studio Stage. For more information, visit foxvalleyrep.org/education.