Auditions for a new theatre performance are underway and although many enthusiastic children have already stepped up, there remains a number of roles for adults.
Almost 20 people came out to the Sundre Arts Centre on Saturday, June 8 to audition for B.S. Productions’ planned rendition of Matilda, said musical director Jamie Syer, who together with director Brian Bailey teamed up a few years ago to establish the non-profit theatre club that has since then put on numerous shows.
Most of the aspiring actors were kids, said Syer, adding the challenge moving forward will be finding a few more grownups to fill the adult roles in the musical theatre production based on Roald Dahl’s novel of the same name.
“There are lots of kids in the show,” he said.
“But it’s not just a kids' show.”
There are several significant parts, especially for males and Syer said another round of auditions were planned for the coming week to secure those roles.
“We need to make sure we can actually cast the show,” he said, adding rehearsals are expected to start in the fall provided the roles are all cast. If all goes according to plan, the performance would be scheduled some time next winter, he said.
Having already started working with some youth, he said, “It’s been a real pleasure for me to see their energy and enthusiasm.”
With previous productions including In the Heights with Sundre High School Drama Club students as well as Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, which was also performed in Edmonton at the International Fringe Festival, under their belts, Syer said he and Bailey decided to set their sights on Matilda next, their first shot at a show that involves many children.
“It’s a really entertaining show,” he said, adding the play features not only great and “infectious music” but also an inspiring theme of self-perseverance and determination.
“It’s all about people being in difficult situations, being bullied, treated poorly, and what they do to overcome that.”
The main story of Matilda is about a small girl who takes charge of her life. However, there are also many other characters that find themselves struggling to control their lives, eventually coming to the realization they can redirect their own destiny, he said.
“It’s about taking control of your life and going forward in a positive way.”
The adult characters are “really over the top” and Syer said he hopes the remaining roles can be filled.
“The musical component can be a little bit intimating for people who haven’t done it,” he said.
“But I’ve worked with all ranges of people and skills. It can be done — you don’t have to be an accomplished singer before you come and talk to us.”
Anyone interested in learning more may either email [email protected] or contact Syer at 403- 638-6765.
