Press Release: Auditions

FRANKLIN – The Barrow-Civic Theatre will hold auditions for its upcoming production of the family classic “Kiss Me Kate” on April 18 and 19, 2009.

Combine Shakespeare's "Taming of the Shrew" with Cole Porter's music and lyrics to get “Kiss Me Kate,” an instant success to wow every cast and entertain every audience. This is a play-within-a-play where each cast member's on-stage life is complicated by what is happening offstage. Musical numbers include Why Can't You Behave, Wunderbar, Too Darn Hot, Brush Up Your Shakespeare, and Another Op'nin, Another Show. “Kiss Me Kate” is a fun, melodious and sophisticated journey as harried director Fred Graham plays the lead in his production opposite his ex-wife Lilli Vannessi. Add in some mistaken identify of a gambling debt, an enamoured army general, two thugs looking for the “right” guy, and soon the backstage antics and drama spill onstage into Padua for a version of Shakespeare not soon to be forgotten.

Produced by Franklin Civic Operetta Association, “Kiss Me Kate” will play for five shows June 19-20 and 26-28 at the Barrow-Civic Theatre in Franklin PA. The show is being directed by Ted Smith, who has previously directed “The Wizard of Oz”, “Sweet Charity,” “The Hollow” and the FCOA 50th Anniversary Gala. Music Direction will be by Pete Greene. The production is being produced for FCOA by Corky Jamison and Mary Ann Richardson

Both singing and non-singing acting roles are available. Singers should be prepared to sing a prepared piece of music from musical theatre. An accompanist will be provided. CDs must not have background vocals, and a cappella is acceptable. Actors may be required to read excerpts from the script. All roles are open.

Auditions will take place on Saturday April 18 at 2pm and Sunday April 19 at 2pm. Please use the alley door off the Little Theatre. No appointment is necessary for auditions.

The production is also looking for interested individuals for our production crew, including set construction, costuming, props, and stage crew. If you are interested in being on the crew, please contact the theatre at the information below.

For more information, please contact the theatre at 814-432-5196 or email tedsmith.patio@gmail.com. “Kiss Me Kate” is the summer musical of the 2009 Franklin Civic Operetta Association Season of Shows at the Barrow-Civic Theatre, 1223 Liberty Street, Franklin PA, 16323. www.barrowtheatre.com