NFCT to hold auditions for ‘Suessical,’ May 23

The North Fork Community Theater will hold auditions for its next production, “Suessical” on May 23 at 6 p.m. at the theater.

Seussical is based on the works of Dr. Seuss and weaves together his most famous tales and characters from at least 15 of his books. The show follows the adventures of Horton, an elephant who one day hears voices coming from a speck of dust. He soon discovers that within this tiny speck exists the smallest planet in the universe. On this tiny planet live a tiny race of creatures known as Whos. Although ridiculed by the other animals in the Jungle of Nool for believing in something he cannot see, Horton stubbornly persists in his belief that the Whos exist. Traveling everywhere from the Jungle of Nool to McEligott’s Pool, some of the characters fall in love, some have desperate adventures, and some even save the world.

Note – Seussical is a sung-through musical which means that the entire show is comprised of music. There is very little “speaking”, and most of the lines and dialogue are sung.

To prepare for the audition, please be ready to sing up to 32 bars of any style musical theatre song. You may sing from the show. An accompanist will be provided, but you must bring sheet music. A section of choreography will be taught at the auditions so wear something comfortable enough to dance in. Anyone planning to audition is encouraged to bring a performance resume, but it is not an absolute requirement. Please direct any questions about the upcoming auditions to directors Eric Hughes (mailto:ejhughes102@gmail.com (mailto:ejhughes102@gmail.com)) or Liz Liszanckie (mailto:liszanckie@gmail.com (mailto:liszanckie@gmail.com)).

The Youth On Stage program encourages any youth (ages 14-22) at all experience levels to audition.

Rehearsals will typically be Sundays at 6 p.m. and Mondays through Thursdays at 7 p.m. Rehearsals will not run past 9 p.m. for any students until the school year ends. There may be a Saturday dance rehearsal depending on availability. There will also be opportunities for preview performances at the NFCT gala and other local events.

Character breakdown:

Lead roles:
Cat in the Hat – (M or F) The Cat is the spunky, fun-loving narrator of the show. The Cat leads Jojo into an adventurous world and serves as his guide. Singer/dancer. (Tenor/Baritone or soprano)

Horton the Elephant – (M) A sweet and kind creature who tries to protect all of the Whos. Horton wants to help anyone and everyone, and is so caught up in trying to save the world that he is oblivious to the fact that Gertrude is in love with him. Singer. (Tenor/Baritone)

Jojo – (M- but sometimes cast as F) A young boy from Whoville whose “thinks” often get him in trouble! He is creative, rebellious, and energetic. Singer/mover. (Tenor or Alto)

Gertrude McFuzz – (F) Adorable bird-girl who is in love with Horton. Gertrude is self-conscious of her one-feathered tail and longs to have a more elaborate and showy tail in order to impress Horton. Singer. (Soprano)

Mayzie LaBird – (F) Lively and energetic bird-girl who has the biggest tail of them all! She is sassy and bold, and is always on the go. Singer/dancer. (Mezzo – belt)

Sour Kangaroo – (F) She is loud, boisterous, and sassy! The other animals in the Jungle of Nool always listen to her, and she acts as their leader throughout the show. Singer. (Soprano – belt)

Supporting roles
Mr. Mayor – (M) The mayor of Whoville, and Jojo’s father. He doesn’t know what to do with his son who disobeys him. (Tenor)

Mrs. Mayor – (F) The mayor’s wife, and Jojo’s mother. She is also struggling with what to do with her rebellious son. (Mezzo)

Bird Girls – (F) Three bird girls who hang out with Mayzie. They are colorful, fun, and energetic. Singers/dancers. (all voice parts)

Wickersham Brothers (M or F) Three monkeys in the Jungle of Nool. They are mischievous and like to create trouble. Many other animals are afraid of them. (All voice parts)

General Gengus Khan Schmitz – (M) The leader of the Army in Whoville. He is loud, commanding, and sometimes mean. (Baritone)

The Grinch – (M) As most people know, the Grinch is a grouch and he stole Christmas! Singer. (Bass-baritone)

Yertle the Turtle – (M or F) Yertle is a powerful member of the Jungle of Nool and respected by all the other animals. He/she serves as the judge when Horton is on trial. (Bass-baritone or Alto)

Vlad Vladikoff – (M or F) A majestic eagle who is also mischievous and daring. Strong dancer.

Ensembles:
Jungle of Nool (subgroups: jungle creatures, fish, hunches, circus animals, hunters).

Whoville (subgroups: citizens of Who, cadets)