Midcoast Youth Theater brings kids on stage. We find a place for every child who auditions regardless of experience. Each production is led by a team of producer, director, music director, choreographer, stage managers, and assistants. Theater helps children and teens develop social and emotional maturity, self-esteem, leadership and the ability to work cooperatively.

MYT Spring Show Cancellation and Plans

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MYT Community
 
We hope everyone is doing and keeping well.  As you may suspect, given the guidance and mandates from all relevant authorities, we must cancel the production of Dr. Dolittle scheduled to go up in May.
 
On the positive side, the Board and the MYT creative team are committed to providing opportunities for our community to participate in musical theater this spring.  It seems like we are all going to have a lot of time on our hands and we are considering how to best keep the arts and musical theater alive, and our kids engaged, until life returns to “normal,” something that seems likely to be months away. If you have any ideas for programming that you would like to be a part of and/or that you would like to help plan, that meets the needs of these “social distancing” times, please reach out to Tammy or anyone on the MYT Board with your ideas (names listed below).
 
We will send out additional communications when we have our plans solidified.  In the meantime stay well!  We will get through this, and we can not wait to share the stage with you all again!

The MYT Board,

Meleena Sheffler
Diane Smith Howard
Michael Millett
Brianne Martin
Rich Ellis
Katie Alberico
Erika Rivard
Eddie Hatrick
14 March 2020
Posted by Meleena
0 Comments

AUDITIONS DOCTOR DOLITTLE THE MUSICAL

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DOCTOR DOLITTLE THE MUSICAL

We are pleased to announce that Midcoast Youth Theater will be performing Doctor Dolittle this spring, May 14-17, 2020.



 AUDITION INFORMATION
Auditions times are broken into separate slots depending on age, experience, and roles desired. Arrive ready to go at the start time of your slot. Everyone who auditions will be included in the show. The Director for this show, Tammy Verreault, the Music Director, Courtney Babbidge, and Choreographer, K.C. Andreu will help everyone who comes out to audition to feel comfortable to participate in the process. Please inform them of any special needs ahead of time.
Please print out and bring or be prepared to fill out the audition sheet and payment sheet that is posted in this event. We will have some blank copies on hand but legal guardian signatures are required for all minors.
Audition Form: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PzTICElOIheXqqEEJWSd2xqzT4qfaPcm
Payment Form: https://drive.google.com/file/d/17SwQIR7OVa8mpZJ7yOBjBvgJaThX_twj


SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29th
10:00 - 10:45AM
ROOKIES: This time slot is reserved for young cast members and those children who have no or limited experience. The suggested age range is 5-7. Children will review a part of the song “Doctor Dolittle” and perform it as a group in front of parents. They will then practice taking stage directions through theater games. The ROOKIES will be featured in small groups in parts of larger song numbers and/or smaller skits. Please refer to the list of songs/stories at the bottom of this listing for specifics.

11:00-12:30
ENSEMBLE ROLES: This time slot is reserved for those cast members who are mainly interested in being part of the ensemble, a small or large group of actors who perform on stage together. Please review the descriptions for the different ensembles in the character description list.

If you are interested in an ensemble role without solo moments then the audition process will require a simple check of your vocal range, a group acting activity, and a group dance movement session.

If you are interested in an ensemble role with musical solos then the audition process will still require a simple check of your vocal range. You will also be required to sing 30 seconds from a song that is in the same style as the show, is memorized, and showcases your vocal ability. Please see the contact information below for our Musical Director if you are not able to find specific sheet music. We will have all of the music from this show. If you are interested in an ensemble role with solo lines then the audition process will also require you to read and act lines from a character from Doctor Dolittle. We will provide you this material at auditions. If you are interested in an ensemble role with both musical solos and solo lines of dialogue then you will be asked to do both. Everyone auditioning for an ensemble role will need to participate in a group dance movement session.

1:00-4:00 PM
SUPPORTING AND MAIN ROLES (including main puppet roles): (*Due to the large turnout expected for this time slot please know that we may extend this time slot as needed.)

This time slot is reserved for those cast members who are interested in a main or supporting role, including main puppet role, as described in the character descriptions or a main puppet role. Please note that the age ranges in the descriptions are a guideline. We recognize that someone may be able to play a role much younger or older than their actual age.

Auditions for this group will include a song, dance, and acting portion. Unless your character does not sing any solos, come prepared to sing a song that you have memorized and that showcases your voice. You must sing with accompaniment from our Musical Director on piano and may not sing acapella. You may sing 32 bars or about 1 minute of a song of your choice. You may sing a song from the show, but keep in mind that sometimes the show's own songs are not the best audition songs. Please check with our Musical Director, Courtney Babbidge, if you are not able to supply sheet music for him to play. We will have all of the music from this show. He may already have what you are looking for, can easily access it, or will help make another suggestion. Courtney can be emailed at cbm7b5@yahoo.com.

Please come ready to perform a dance number in small groups taught by our choreographer. Please stretch ahead of time and wear or bring sensible clothing and shoes for movement.

Acting will be reviewed through readings in monologue form. The director will be posting monologues ahead of time for you to review and practice. You are encouraged to study those characters you are most interested. If time permits we will allow a second reading.

If you are auditioning for one of the main puppet roles than an exercise in use of facial and body expression will be conducted. It will be key that the puppeteer also owns the part of the animal in mannerisms.

Auditions for this group will include a song, dance, and acting portion. Unless your character does not sing any solos, come prepared to sing a song that you have memorized and that showcases your voice. You must sing with accompaniment from our Musical Director on piano and may not sing acapella. You may sing 32 bars or about 1 minute of a song of your choice. You can sing a song from the show, but keep in mind that sometimes the show's own songs are not the best audition songs. Please check with our Musical Director, Courtney Babbidge, if you are not able to supply sheet music for him to play. We will have all of the music from this show. He may already have what you are looking for, can easily access it, or will help make another suggestion. Courtney can be emailed at cbm7b5@yahoo.com.

Please come ready to perform a dance number in small groups taught by our choreographer. Please stretch ahead of time and wear or bring sensible clothing and shoes for movement.

IF CALLBACKS ARE NEEDED they will be held on Sunday, March 1st from 2:00-4:00PM. Anyone needed for the callback will be contacted Saturday evening. The callbacks will consist of singing songs from the show for the character you are being considered and acting from scenes from the show with other auditioners. A more complex dance audition may also be required. All information will be told to those contacted for a callback. Material will be sent by email to allow for study and memorization.

IF NO CALLBACKS ARE NEEDED then a cast list will be posted on our private Facebook page by Thursday, March 5th.

Our first rehearsal will take place on Saturday, March 7 from 2:00-5:00 PM to conduct a first introduction of the entire cast, handing out of scripts, and reading and singing through the whole show. ROOKIES are asked to come at 2:00 PM on this first day.

SHOW DATES AND REHEARSAL INFORMATION

The show will be performed on Thursday, May 14th through Sunday, May 17th at Crooker Theater at Brunswick High School. Shows will be at 7:00 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 2:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

Rehearsals will be held at Mid-Coast Presbyterian Church at 84 Main Street in Topsham on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 6:00-9:00 pm and Saturday 2:00-5:00 PM. Not everyone will be called to every rehearsal. We try to keep the youngest performers to Friday and Saturday rehearsals, except during the last week before the show when the full cast will be called.

Those cast as our ROOKIES, which will be our youngest and/or less experienced cast members, will have the opportunity for learning about theater through games from 1:00-1:45 PM each Saturday.

Please contact the Director, Tammy Verreault (former Tammy Holmes), with any questions at tammy.verreault@midcoastyouththeater.org or send a private message to Tammy Dumont Verreault on Facebook.

PROGRAM FEES (TROUPE FEES)

Program fees (troupe fees) are $100 for the first performer and $80 for each additional performer in a family. Payment is due at the first rehearsal, but can also be paid in advance at auditions. We accept check, cash or credit card. Please make checks payable to Midcoast Youth Theater. Full or partial scholarships are available for those who need them (see scholarship request below). If you need to make payments over time, please talk to the show Producer or MYT Treasurer.

Why do we charge program fees? Our shows cost between $16k-$22k to produce. This covers things like theater rental and rehearsal space, show rights, stipends for the production team and an orchestra, sound equipment, costumes, props and sets. Roughly 85% of this cost is paid for by tickets, concessions and sponsors. Program fees help cover the remaining 15% of the total cost.

Please print out and bring or be prepared to fill out the payment form at the link below:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/17SwQIR7OVa8mpZJ7yOBjBvgJaThX_twj

THE SHOW

This show has it all! It is a 2½ hour show with talking animals, steampunk costumes, award-winning music with many ensemble dance breaks, ships, storms, a giant pink snail, a circus scene, comedy of errors, friendships, and blossoming love! This show promises to be visually stunning as many stage puppets will be used to represent the many, many animals. Bigger animals will be a feast to the imagination as the story builds up to reveal a giant, pink snail large enough to travel people inside the shell! One big scene takes place at the circus and the ensemble may be full of acrobats, animal acts, jugglers, contortionists, unicyclists, etc.

The director, Tammy Verreault (formerly Holmes), has a clear vision for the show. The setting starts in a small port in Victorian England in 1839 and travels from the edge of the sea to a courtroom and back out to sea to a tropical location after surviving a storm. The vision for the show’s costumes may be steampunk-inspired given the time period and director’s vision.

Doctor Dolittle has become a worldwide phenomenon! Doctor Dolittle is based on the stories of Hugh Lofting from 1920 to 1952 and transformed into other mediums such as movies starring Rex Harrison (1967), Eddie Murphy (1998, 2001) and now, the latest Hollywood blockbuster, in movie theaters now, starring Robert Downey Jr.

Dolittle, Original Trailer, released in 1967 and is most similar to the musical stage version:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49CmzIRX1k0

Dolittle Official Trailer starring Robert Downey Jr., released January 17, 2020:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjm6rDgKNMY

This is a classic tale of love and kindness told through the adventures of an eccentric Doctor Dolittle, a country doctor, who upon finding out he is able to communicate with animals becomes a veterinarian and vegetarian! Polynesia, his parrot, actually speaks to him in English and promises to teach him all the animal languages. The Doctor has the ambition to find a giant pink sea snail, the oldest and wisest of all the creatures on earth. In order to finance his voyage, he needs to raise some money. When Straight Arrow, a friend from a tropical island, sends him a two-headed llama named "Pushmi-Pullyu", pronounced “push me pull you”, the doctor joins Albert Blossom’s circus to raise the cash. However, while on an errand of mercy helping a seal, Sophie, to escape to the sea he is arrested because they mistakenly thought he was throwing an old woman off of a cliff. He is cleared of this charge by the magistrate, General Bellowes, but is sentenced to an asylum for talking to animals. Matthew Mugg, his best friend, Tommy Stubbins, a local child, and Emma Fairfax, a growing admirer, help him to escape and then go in search of the giant pink sea snail.

The score is witty and charming and was nominated for a Golden Globe Award and Grammy for best music for its originality written by Leslie Bricusse. Leslie, who also wrote the music in Willy Wonka and Chocolate Factory, Jekyll and Hyde, and collaborated on many others, won an Oscar for the song “Talk to the Animals” from Doctor Dolittle.

Please familiarize yourself with the show as you are guaranteed to be surprised and excited at all the twists and turns! A complete summary of the show plot can be found at Music Theater International’s website: https://www.mtishows.com/print/node/1489

MORE AUDITION INFORMATION

CAST REQUIREMENTS

Accents are used in most roles in Doctor Dolittle. The use of a specific English dialect at auditions is a plus but not required and will be taught during rehearsals.

A Cockney accent (also known as an East End accent) is demonstrated by listening to Adele, Burt from Mary Poppins, Mrs. Lovett and Tobias Ragg from Sweeney Todd.

A standard English accent (also known as Received Pronunciation (RP) is demonstrated by listening to Jeremy Irons, Helen Mirren, Colin Firth, or the Queen or Princess Diana of England.

Good enunciation is required for all speaking roles.

Parent Meetings to include all teens and adult cast members will occur for 15 minutes on the first Saturday of the month to allow the Dolittle Crew and/or MYT Board members to communicate to the cast.

Facebook is our main way of communicating with the entire cast. Every cast member needs to have a way to access our private page where pictures and videos from rehearsal and important announcements will be posted. All information about our production will be easily accessed on this page. We strongly encourage everyone to be able to access this page so if you do not have a Facebook account we would ask you to create one just for use during this show. You could delete it afterward.

Dancing will be required of all cast members. While no experience is necessary because our choreographer will teach dance steps, we do expect a large cast which means less time will be available for extensive individual lessons. Effort, natural talent, and a willingness to learn and practice at home will all be considered.

Vocal ranges are listed for those characters with significant solos. Other characters have a general vocal description. Other parts list no vocal range because the role sings in small groups or with the ensemble. Please refer to a diagram posted on our event page to help you as a key to the names of the notes.

***Please know that all of the non-speaking puppeteer roles will sing all of the ensemble songs and will play other featured roles.

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

ENSEMBLE:
Ensemble members will be playing Villagers, Court Crowd, Circus Folk, Islanders, and Animals.

Villagers: The Villagers appear in the opening and closing scenes of the show in two dramatic, singing numbers. All cast members are involved in the opening scene of the show except for Dr. Dolittle, General Bellowes, the court clerk, lawyers, and bailiff who all have to be ready for the next scene in the courtroom.

Aubrey Dymme-Witt: male, 40 and up, but must play elderly
One of Dr. Dolittle's human patients and a fox hunter.

Mayor Millard: male, 20 and up, but must play older
The mayor of Puddleby and a fox hunter.

The opening scene will consist of a fishing village where we are introduced to the town of Puddleby by Matthew Mugg. The villagers will be played by the ensemble and others in the cast. The cast will be very busy creating the look of a busy village and may take on roles such as a baker, barber, blacksmith, etc. Others will be involved in creating mini-scenes within the scene such as a policeman chasing a dog that just stole a sausage or children playing tag. Natural lines that go with these scenes will be added as we create this together. I would like the cast to be part of creating the magic in this scene by helping to develop these roles.

Animals: There will be many, many animals represented through puppetry. These are just a few that are mentioned. There will be Sheila, a fox who gets chased by hunters, Herbert the hedgehog who likes to sit in Dolittle’s chair, and so many more! The cast, especially the children, will love learning about their animal and creating a story!

Sophie: female, any age
She is a seal and married to Nigel the seal. This is a non-speaking puppeteer role.

Nigel: male, any age
He is a seal and married to Sophie the seal. This is a non-speaking puppeteer role.

Toggle, male or female, any age
A nearsighted plow-horse who comes to Doctor Dolittle for glasses. This is a non-speaking role but a convincing neigh will be key.

Court Crowd: The Court Crowd appears in five scenes and is very vocal with their opinions about what they like and don’t like as they listen to the trial of Dr. Dolittle. The Court Crowd includes Professor Dymme-Witt, two policemen, a bailiff, two lawyers, and a court clerk.

Rufus: male or female, any age

This is General Bellowe’s big, energetic dog who converses with Doctor Dolittle during the court hearing. He is a British bulldog. This is a non-speaking puppeteer role but a convincing bark will be key

Circus Folk: The Circus Folk appear in one major scene with the exception of some of the circus animals, which may appear in two, and consist of circus entertainers, circus animals, and visitors to the circus. These roles will be further determined as rehearsals begin. Circus Folk include Albert and Gertie Blossom’s children.

Pushmi-Pullyu: two males or two females, age is not as much
a factor as dancing ability and similar height

This is a two-headed llama who is sent from Tibet by wooden box to
Doctor Dolittle. This is a non-speaking role, but the right two actors/
Actresses will be acting as one animal facing away from one another.


Islanders: The islanders appear in one major scene with the exception of the entourage, which may appear in two. The islanders will include trumpeters, warriors, elders, acolytes (helpers to elders), Straight Arrow’s entourage, and extinct animals (dodo bird, baby mammoth, etc.)

All cast members are involved in the closing scene of the show, which takes place outside of the courtroom.

MAIN AND SUPPORTING ROLES

MAIN ROLES:
Dr. John Dolittle: male, suggested age range of 25-50 but must be believable with whoever is cast as his love interest, Emma Fairfax

An eccentric country doctor who gets along with animals easier than with people. He can talk to animals. He is smart, passionate, driven, and the consummate optimist always looking for the best in every situation.

voice range is Ab4 to Bb2

Emma Fairfax: female, suggested age 25-50, but must be believable with whoever is cast as her love interest, Doctor Dolittle

A strong, tough woman who is willing to speak her mind. She is General Bellowes' niece and is short-tempered like her uncle. She gets off on the wrong foot with Dolittle but grows in understanding him and eventually develops feelings for him. She learns to appreciate his love of animals.

voice range is Ab3 to Db5

Matthew Mugg: male, suggested age range 25 and up but must appear younger than Dolittle

The Irish cat's meat man, our modern-day version would be UberEats. He is a good friend to Dolittle and joins the journey to find the elusive pink snail. He shares Dolittle’s love of animals and must have strong, comedic timing.

voice range is A2 to A4

Polynesia: female, age range open to teens and up due to needing to sound sophisticated

voice range is C4 to E5

Dolittle's large, brilliantly plumaged, 199-year-old, long-tailed, multi-lingual, Macaw parrot. She is his intelligent and spunky assistant, who is often the one with answers. She is able to speak English with a sophisticated accent; a proper English accent. This is a puppeteer role with lines and solos.

SUPPORTING ROLES:

General Bellowes: male, suggested age 45-65
A local landowner and the magistrate to the Puddleby Court who hears the case on Doctor Dolittle. His niece is Emma Fairfax. He is ill-tempered and has limited people skills or patience. The actor needs to have a commanding speaking voice.

Tommy Stubbins: male, suggested age range 10-14

A happy, go-lucky kid, who idolizes Dolittle and enjoys playing with the animals. He brings his sick pet duck, Dab-Dab to Dolittle for help. It is in this manner that Tommy is also a puppeteer.

voice range is B3 to B4

Albert Blossom: male, suggested age 40-60, but must be believable with whoever is cast as his wife Gert

A shrewd businessman who owns a dilapidated touring circus. This curmudgeonly old guy is always trying to stubbornly make a deal and thinks he is worldly and can outsmart others. He has a Yorkshire accent.

Gertie Blossom: female, suggested age 40-60, but must be believable with whoever is cast as her husband, Albert
She is Albert's German wife and helps him run the circus. She is a tough cookie and money-oriented.

voice range is C4 to F5

Straight Arrow: male, suggested age 16 and up with a mature voice
He is Dolittle's colleague who is the leader of Sea Star Island. He is very refined, majestic, elegant and highly educated. He lives the life of a warrior chief on the island. He is warm and embracing to both humans and animals.

voice range is C4 to E5

MAIN PUPPETS:

These three main puppets can be male or female from age 12 and up. These are non-speaking puppeteer roles. These animals are some of the many animals that live with Doctor Dolittle. Along with Polynesia, they join Doctor Dolittle on the journey to find the great pink sea snail.

Jip: ever-faithful dog, who will need to bark and must be able to move around the stage quickly

Gub-Gub: a sweet and hungry piglet, who will need to oink and squeal

Chee-Chee: a mischievous chimpanzee, who will need to move about the stage and ship like an ape

SONG BREAKDOWN

You are encouraged to listen to the West End (England's equivalent to Broadway) version of the cast album for this show. It's spectacular! Its available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8f_ACV3dM08m4lTMzbR5OXxbdlj3HdMC

Act I
Overture - Orchestra
Opening - Polynesia
Puddleby-On-The-Marsh - Polynesia, Matthew Mugg, Villagers
Talk to the Animals - Doctor Dolittle, Polynesia
My Friend the Doctor - Matthew Mugg, Court Crowd
The Vegetarian - Doctor Dolittle
At the Crossroads - Emma Fairfax
I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It - Doctor Dolittle, Albert and Gertie Blossom, Circus Folk
Beautiful Things - Emma Fairfax
When I Look Into Your Eyes - Doctor Dolittle
Like Animals - Doctor Dolittle
INTERMISSION
Act II
You’re Impossible - Emma Fairfax, Doctor Dolittle
After Today - Matthew Mugg
Fabulous Places - Emma Fairfax, Doctor Dolittle, Matthew Mugg, Tommy Stubbins, Polynesia
Where Are The Words? - Doctor Dolittle and Matthew Mugg
Save the Animals - Straight Arrow, Islanders
Something In Your Smile - Doctor Dolittle
Reprise: Save the Animals - Straight Arrow, Doctor Dolittle
The Voice of Protest - Emma Fairfax, Villagers
Finale: I’ve Never Seen Anything Like It Reprise - Albert and Gertie Blossom
Finale: World of Doctor Dolittle, If I Could Talk to the Animals, My Friend the Doctor Reprises - The Full Cast
16 February 2020
Posted by Rich
2 Comments

Tickets Available for Seussical

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Purchase tickets online prior to December 15th and take advantage of individual, family and group discounts.

Show Dates:
Thursday, January 9, 2020, 7pm
Friday, January 10, 2020, 7pm
Saturday, January 11, 2020, 2pm
Saturday, Jaunary 11, 2020, 7pm
Sunday, January 12, 2020, 2pm

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https://mytseussical.brownpapertickets.com/

 Tickets will also be available at the door on show nights pending seat availability.
16 November 2019
Posted by Meleena
0 Comments

Call For Directors

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Call for Directors!
Midcoast Youth Theater
Summer and Fall/Winter 2020


Midcoast Youth Theater (MYT) is thrilled to announce it will be performing Seussical as its Fall/Winter show, January 9-12, 2020, directed by Edgar Hattrick.  MYT’s Spring 2020 show will be Cinderella,[1] directed by Tammy Dumont Verreault, show dates will be in May 2020.  Auditions for MYT’s spring show are likely to occur in February.

We are now seeking applications from experienced and/or highly motivated directors interested in leading creative teams for our Summer and Fall/Winter Musicals, 2020.  The director must work closely with their creative team[2]  and parent volunteers. All creative team members must be able to support the MYT mission of creating a nurturing theater experience for young people, and be able to work well with others. Directors and some members of the creative team will receive a stipend.

We are seeking directors for three separate musicals for children/youth, in Summer 2020 and one family show in Fall/ Winter, with a show run in December 2020 or January 2021. Applications may be submitted for Summer, Fall/Winter, or both. 

Summer Shows:
Auditions for all three summer productions will be held in May 2020, with rehearsals beginning within two weeks thereafter.  The show dates for the three Summer shows are TBD and will be dependent to some degree on the venue availability and director's schedule.
Younger Children K-3rd grade show: This show will be less than one hour long and will run as a “double feature” with the Middle Children’s show.  Rising Third Graders may choose to join this show or the Middle Children show.
Middle Children 4th-8th grade show: This show will likely be a “junior” version of a musical, in particular, Frozen Jr. or Moana Jr.[3]  The Middle Children’s show will be run as a “double feature” with the Younger Children’s show.  Rising Eighth Graders may choose to join this show or the High School show, however, due to the mature content of the High School show, written parent/guardian permission will be required for a rising Eighth Grader to join the High School show.

High School 9th-12th grade will perform Rent[4]: 
This High School show will run later in the summer than the Younger/Middle Children’s Show.

Fall/Winter Show:

Auditions for the Fall/Winter show will be held in September of 2020, with rehearsals beginning within two weeks thereafter.  The show dates for the Fall Winter show are TBD and will depend to some degree on the venue availability, but will occur in December 2020 or January 2021.

The show selection for the Fall/Winter family show has not been made and anyone applying for this position should include one or more show proposals with a brief explanation as to why the identified show is a good choice for MYT.


About Us:

Midcoast Youth Theater is a non-profit organization providing equal opportunities for all children to perform. .  We are an inclusive theater group, casting all children who audition.  We also provide financial scholarships for any who need it in order to participate in our programming.  We attempt to choose shows that accommodate our large casts, have expandable ensembles, and provide opportunities for children of different abilities.
Our summer shows are for children/youth only.  Our two annual family shows have grown over the last several years from 65-120 performers of varying age, experience, and skill levels. For the family shows, more than half of the cast will be children and youth. The primary focus of MYT is to create opportunity for actors to learn and grow, and to have fun while doing it.

Application Process: 
To apply, please email a resume and answers to the following questions to diane.smith.howard@midcoastyoutheater.org, subject: MYT Call for Directors” as soon as possible. Positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Please direct any questions regarding the application process to diane.smith.howard@midcoastyoutheater.org or call at (207) 522-2871.
Please provide a brief narrative of your theater background. Please list up to three shows that you have directed including performance dates, the size of the cast, the age-range of the cast, and the name of the organization or school that produced the show.  If you have directed three or fewer shows, please include relevant experience you have had that make you a strong candidate for directing a family musical, including your specific experience with the age-group you are seeking to direct. Director applicants must be over age 21.
MYT is a non-profit organization that relies heavily on volunteers and, therefore, depends on an atmosphere of mutual support and camaraderie.  Please describe what skills or experiences you have that will enable you to foster that atmosphere in your role as director.


[1] Subject to availability of licensing.
[2]MYT is responsible for selecting the members of the production team. The creative team includes:  music director, choreographer, set designer, stage manager, costumer, lighting, and sound.
[3] Subject to availability of licensing.
[4] Subject to availability of licensing.

25 October 2019
Posted by Meleena
0 Comments

Announcing Seussical Auditions

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Oh the things you can think, if you’re willing to try…..Be a part of brining the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss to life.

Come out to audition for Midcoast Youth Theater’s production of “Seussical the Musical”
SHOW DATES AND REHEARSAL INFORMATION
Seussical the Musical will be performed on Thursday, January 9th through Sunday, January 12th, 2020 at Crooker Theater at Brunswick High School. Shows will be at 7:00 PM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday and 2:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

Rehearsals will be held at Mid-Coast Presbyterian Church at 84 Main Street in Topsham on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 6:00-9:00 pm and Saturday 2:00-5:00pm. Not everyone will be called to every rehearsal. We try to keep the youngest performers to Friday and Saturday rehearsals, except during the last week before the show when the full cast will be called.

Please contact the Director, Eddie Hatrick, with any questions at eddie.hatrick@midcoastyouththeater.org.

TROUPE FEES
Troupe fees, paid by participants, help to offset some of the production cost. Troupe fees are $100 for the first performer and $80 for every additional performer in a family. Full or partial scholarships are available for those who need them. All information is kept confidential. Please bring a completed troupe fee form to the audition.

Troupe Fee Form

AUDITIONS
Auditions times are broken into separate slots depending on roles desired. Arrive ready to go at the start time of your slot. Everyone who auditions will be included in the show. The Director for this show, Eddie Hatrick, the Music Director, Courtney Babbidge, and the Choreographer KC Andreu, will help everyone who comes to audition to feel comfortable and participate in the process. Please inform them of any special needs ahead of time.

Please print out and bring or be prepared to fill out the audition sheet that will be posted. It requires that you list known scheduling conflicts.

Audition Form 

Friday, September 27th

*Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your audition start time to ensure you are ready to begin when the session begins.  We encourage you to print and complete the audition and troupe fee form prior to arriving to save time.  Forms will be available for completion at auditions.

5:00-6:00PM
ENSEMBLE ROLES: This time slot is reserved for those cast members who are mainly interested in being part of the ensemble, a small or large group of actors who perform on stage together. If you are interested in an ensemble role without vocal or dancing solos and features then the audition process will require a simple check of your vocal range and a group dance movement session. Unless trying out for a supporting or main role, all children in grades K-2 should audition during this time.

If you are interested in an ensemble role with vocal or dancing solos and features, then please join us for the Supporting and Main Roles audition from 6-9 PM.

6:00pm-9:00pm
SUPPORTING AND MAIN ADULT ROLES:

This time slot is reserved for those cast members who are interested in a lead or supporting role as described in the character descriptions. Please note that the age ranges in the descriptions are a guideline. We recognize that someone may be able to play a role much younger or older than their actual age.

Auditions for this group will include a song, dance, and acting portion. Unless your character does not sing any solos, come prepared to sing a song that you have memorized and that showcases your voice. You must sing with accompaniment from our Musical Director on piano and may not sing acapella. You may sing 32 bars or about 1 minute of a song of your choice. You may sing a song from the show, but keep in mind that sometimes the show's own songs are not the best audition songs. Please check with our Musical Director, Courtney Babbidge, if you are not able to supply sheet music for him to play. We will have all of the music from this show. He may already have what you are looking for, can easily access it, or will help make another suggestion. Courtney can be emailed at cbm7b5@yahoo.com.

Please come ready to perform a dance number in small groups taught by our choreographer. Please stretch ahead of time and wear or bring sensible clothing and shoes for movement. Shoes are required in order to dance at auditions.

Acting will be reviewed through cold readings of portions of the script, usually in monologue form. You are encouraged to study those characters you are most interested in. Script material will be provided to you at auditions.

Sunday, September 29th

1:00PM-2:00pm
ENSEMBLE ROLES: See above description.  Note you only need to attend one of the two timeslots to audition.

2:00pm-5:00pm
SUPPORTING AND MAIN ADULT ROLES: see above description.  Note you only need to attend one of the two timeslots to audition.


CAST REQUIREMENTS

Cast members must be in Kindergarten and up to audition.  If you cannot be present at the audition, please contact the director eddie.hatrick@midcoastyouththeater.org to arrange for a video audition.

Parent Meetings to include all teens and adult cast members will occur for 15 minutes on the first Saturday of the month beginning in November to allow the Seussical Crew and/or MYT Board members to communicate to the cast.

Facebook is our main way of communicating with the entire cast. Every cast member or their parent/guardian needs to have a way to access our private page where pictures and videos from rehearsal and important announcements will be posted. All information about our production will be easily accessed on this page. We strongly encourage everyone to be able to access this page so if you do not have a Facebook account we would ask you to create one just for use during this show. You could delete it afterward.

Vocal ranges are listed for those characters with significant solos. Other characters have a general vocal description. Other parts list no vocal range because the role sings in small groups or with the ensemble.

Character Breakdown


THE CAT IN THE HAT, any gender, adult or teen, vocal range F2-F4
Our story's omniscient narrator, he is fun loving and enjoys rhyming. Pops up throughout the story to help the audience. Wise and attentive.  The essence of mischief, fun and imagination.  Strong comedic timing required.

JOJO, any gender, age 8-14, vocal range Ab3-C5
The Mayor's son, he is a Who that is always finding trouble. Bright, creative, and inadvertently mischievous. Possesses a wild imagination.  Can be played a little awkward, as a loner or as a rambunctious kid.

HORTON THE ELEPHANT, Male, adult or teen, vocal range A2-F2
Our story's main character, he is a compassionate and gentle elephant. Horton is a gentle giant who is steadfast, responsible and always tries to do the right thing for his friends. He is imaginative and kind. Horton's view of the world never changes-he believes in its goodness.

GERTRUDE MCFUZZ, Female, adult or teen, vocal range F3-F5
Gertrude is sweet and timid. Though kind and loyal, she is self-conscious of her shortfalls. She is a bit naïve at times, but always is the voice of reason.

MAYZIE LABIRD, Female, adult or teen, vocal range G3-Eb5
The most beautiful bird in all of the jungle, but oblivious to her self-centered ways, she relies on her talent of manipulation, and intoxicating beauty, to navigate her way through life.

THE SOUR KANGAROO, Female, adult or teen, vocal range F#3-F5
The 'leader' of the jungle. She is loud, brassy, and stubbornly set in her ways. A caring mother, but unabashedly sassy and soulful.

YOUNG KANGAROO, Female, 8-12
She is Sour Kangaroo’s daughter and does whatever her mother does.  She is sassy with lots of attitude.

THE WICKERSHAM BROTHERS, male or female, 8 and up, vocal range varies
The Wickersham Brothers are not bad guys! They're simply a lot like kids who tease, play pranks, and get a kick out of making mischief, although often at others' expense. They enjoy hanging around with one another, making music together on the street corner, and playing off one another. Role requires heavy movement.

BIRD GIRLS, female, 12 and up
A clique of pretty, self-centered “back up birds” who do whatever Mayzie does.  They act as story tellers picking-up where the Cat left off. Must be strong dancers.

THE WHOS, male and female, all ages
The Whos are a lot like you and me, only so small as to be invisible. They live in fear that their planet is in trouble. Can include Cindy Lou Who, Max the Dog and other individual characters.

THE MAYOR, male or female, teen-adult
The Mayor and the Mayor’s spouse are Whos who are parents trying hard to raise a difficult child in a difficult world. They may get aggravated with JoJo, but they love him dearly and try to do the right thing, even if it turns out to be a mistake.

THE MAYOR’S SPOUSE, male or female, teen-adult
The Mayor and the Mayor’s spouse are Whos who are parents trying hard to raise a difficult child in a difficult world. They may get aggravated with JoJo, but they love him dearly and try to do the right thing, even if it turns out to be a mistake.

THING 1 & THING 2, male or female
The Cat’s main helpers and an extension of his personality.  Essence of mischief, fun and imagination.  They assist the Cat in many ways, either playing small roles or causing havoc.

YERTLE THE TURTLE, Male, adult or teen, vocal range baritone/base
The King of the pond and thinks he is more important than he is.  He has a sense of entitlement. Presides as the judge at Horton’s trial.

GENERAL GENGUS KHAN SCHMITZ, Male, adult or teen, baritone
A Who General who is bursting with pride at the military academy he runs, and the boys he turns out. He is not mean; he honestly thinks he is doing the right thing and is making the world a better place.

JUNGLE ANIMALS, male or female, 7 and up
Must be strong, expressive dancers.  There will be room for individual characters in this group such as:
• The Eagle: precise and fierce
• The Eaglet: a flapper and leaper.
• The Zebra: proud
• The Gazelle: graceful, uses leaps and turns to travel
• The Lizard: slithers
• The Leopard: deliberate
• The Tamarin monkey: frisky
• The Poison Dart Frog: frog like in movements

CITIZENS OF NOOL
They live in the Jungle of Nool.  They side with the Sour Kangaroo.

THE CADETS
Cadets of General Schmitz’ Military Academy and Citizens of Who.  

HUNCHES
Featured dance group in “Follow your Hunch.”

CIRCUS PERFORMERS
Circus act performers at Circus McGurkus.

“THINKS”
Things that JoJo thinks up.

THE GRINCH, Male, adult or teen, baritone/bass
A fun mover with a distinctive physique.








04 September 2019
Posted by Meleena
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