Synopsis: Set in New York's West Side/Hell's Kitchen in the mid-1950s, the musical explores the rivalry between two teenage gangs of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The young protagonist, Tony, who belongs to the American gang, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the rival Puerto Rican gang's leader. The dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theatre. Bernstein's score for the musical has become extremely popular; it includes "Something's Coming," "Maria," "America," "Somewhere," "Tonight," "Jet Song," "I Feel Pretty," "One Hand, One Heart," and "Cool."
Musical: General Audiences
Director: Barbara Doudt
Auditions May 22 or May 23 at 1pm (Utley Middle School, 1201 Townsend, Rockwall) Teen Theater: Ages 13-19*
Performances: July 30, 31, August 1, 6, 7, 8 ~ 2010
RCP Audition Requirements:
Must be between the ages of 13 and 19
Bring head shot and resume
Be prepared to sing 32 bars of a Broadway musical - an accompanist will be provided
Will learn and perform a dance combination (flat danceable shoes required)
Roles available for: 25 males & 13 females (4 non-singing, dancing roles)
TONY: The former leader of "The Jets", the Irish gang that controls the West Side of NYC. Must have a strong legit, tenor voice must hit high A
MARIA: The young naive immigrant from Puerto Rico. Must have strong, legit, soprano voice must be able to sing a high C
BERNARDO: Maria's older brother and leader of "The Sharks", the Hispanic gang seeking power. Strong stage presence and good dance skills.
ANITA: Bernardo's girlfriend and leader of the "Shark Girls". Must have a strong belt, acting skills and strong dance ability. Needs to be able to sing a low F
RIFF: The current leader of "The Jets" and Tony's best friend. Dance and singing required.
ANYBODYS: The tomboy girl who wants to be one of "The Jets". Dance required and singing audition recommended.
CHINO: Bernardo's best friend and right hand man. Dance required.
ROSALIA, CONSUELA, TERESITA: Featured singing and dance roles. Members of the "Shark Girls".
THE JETS & THE SHARKS: Various levels of singing and dance ability are required. What is necessary is a strong commitment to learn and to try. Singing and dance audition required.
THE GIRLS: We are looking for strong ensemble of female singers/dancers to make up the two groups of "Jet Girls" and "Shark Girls". Stage presence and willingness to try are key elements. Singing and Dance auditions required.
Non-Singing Roles:
DOC: He runs the soda shop where the Jets hang out.
SCHRANK: Strong detective always in command.
OFFICER KRUPKE: A big goon-like cop.
GLAD HAND: Smiling, overly cheerful young man a "square
*Must be between the ages of 13 & 19 at time of rehearsals/performances