AUDITIONS for Music Theatre Conservatory & Acting Conservatory Classes will be held through virtual video submissions or in-person at MMT’s Waldron Stage (20 Church Ave SE, Roanoke, Virginia 24011) on August 22nd from 4:00PM – 6:00PM.
ALL AUDITIONEES: Please fill out and submit this Google Formno later than 6:00PM ET on Friday, August 21st.
Middle & High School students wishing to audition for Music Theatre Conservatory and Acting Conservatory for Fall 2020 may do so in either of the following ways:
Audition in-person
Submit a video audition
1.) In-person auditions will be held on MMT’s Waldron Stage (20 Church Ave SE) on Saturday, August 22nd, from 4:00PM-6:00PM. If singing, middle & high school students will have to submit their sheet music digitally ahead of time and fill out this Google Form. Email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org to schedule an audition time slot and get more information on safety precautions.
2.) Video submissions are due by 6:00PM on Friday, August 21st. Email the links to your audition videos to conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org. Helpful tips on video submissions may be foundHERE.
WHAT TO PREPARE:
Acting Conservatory:
Memorized, one-minute monologue
Music Theatre Conservatory:
Memorized, one-minute monologue
Memorized, one-minute song
To minimize contact with our Music Director during in-person auditions, you MUST submit a PDF of your sheet music (clearly marked & cut- see example here) to conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org by 6:00PM on Friday, August 21st before the audition day. If we do not receive this ahead of time, students will not be able to audition.
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ALL MATERIALS: Materials deadline is 6:00PM on Friday, August 21st. Be sure to submit this Google Form and any necessary materials (i.e. sheet music and optional headshot/resume) on time to conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org. Email with any questions.
Mill Mountain Theatre is among the many regional theatres across the country that have had to make difficult programming decisions due to the Coronavirus pandemic. In adapting to the recommended safety precautions, the theatre’s education department has successfully delivered theatre instruction to over 600 students around the globe through virtual masterclasses and online summer camps since March
In addition to summer camps, MMT delights families every year by performing a free touring show at libraries, schools, parks, and neighborhood venues across the region, reaching over 4,500 patrons for this production annually. Former touring shows include A Peter Rabbit Tale: A Children’s Musical, A Year with Frog and Toad TYA, The Jungle Book, and more. This year, due to COVID-19, the theatre was concerned that it could not produce this touring production in-person while ensuring the safety of its staff, actors, and patrons.
Fortunately, Mill Mountain has been granted permission by the writers of Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical (Melvin Tunstall III, Greg Borowsky & Douglas Lyons) and Broadway Licensing to produce a digital version of the production that will be streamed to MMT’s patrons and to community partners through Broadway on Demand. “We are grateful to the writers and Broadway Licensing for this permission. This will be not only a unique process for us but also the most important production we present in 2020. Polkadots will be our connection to our audiences, sponsors, and community partners during these challenging times,” says Ginger Poole, Producing Artistic Director.
After consultation with leading health officials in the Roanoke Valley, and in conjunction with CDC and VDH recommendations, the theatre has developed safety protocols that will help keep staff & performers safe throughout the process. These protocols include but are not limited to the following: MMT will be bringing in six Non-Equity actors to rehearse and perform the show, which will be recorded on the Trinkle MainStage without an audience. The actors and production creatives will be tested for COVID-19 and quarantined for two weeks upon arrival, will participate in virtual rehearsals during this time, and be tested for COVID-19 again before in-person rehearsals. In order to begin in-person rehearsals, the tests must all provide negative results. If these conditions are met, they will begin working in-person using this small cast & creative team, and all physical rehearsals will be done in masks with all participants also practicing safe social distancing and handwashing.
Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical is about 8-year-old Lily Polkadot, who has just moved to the “Squares Only” small town of Rockaway, and is the first Polkadot in an all Square school. Experiencing everything from daily bullying to segregated drinking fountains, Lily feels hopeless until she meets Sky, a shy Square boy whose curiosity for her unique polkadot skin blooms into an unexpected friendship. Inspired by Civil Rights pioneers Ruby Bridges and The Little Rock Nine, Polkadots serves as a colorful history lesson, reminding us that our differences make us special, not outcasts.
“Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical is exactly what the world needs right now,” says director Christopher Castanho. “I could not be more excited to share this story of inclusion and love with our patrons. Through this digital distribution, we hope to still reach all of the families and communities who would’ve seen the show in person. Major thanks to the writers, Melvin Tunstall III, Greg Borowsky & Douglas Lyons, who have granted us this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to produce their beautiful show when the world needs it most.”
Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical has a Book by Melvin Tunstall III, Music by Greg Borowsky & Douglas Lyons, and Lyrics by Douglas Lyons. Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical features Alexia Buckner (Lily), Achilles Mulkey (Sky), Nisa Isabella Mercado (Penelope), Madeline Walker (Ms. Square), Roberto Méndez (Papa Square), and AnnElese Galleo (Swing). Directed & Choreographed by Christopher Castanho, Music Directed by Seth Davis, Producing Artistic Direction by Ginger Poole, Production Stage Managed by Taylor Cobb with Scenic & Properties Design by Matt Shields, Costume Design by Cole Spivia, Lighting Design by Travis Kendrick, Costume Support by Jennie Ruhland, and Video Editing by Christopher Castanho.
Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical will be released on September 15th in honor of National Online Learning Day, and runs until October 9th. The production will be completely FREE and available through Broadway On Demand. Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical is presented with special permission through Broadway Licensing. Join MMT’s mailing list to get more updates on how to get your FREE access code to watch the show and join the fun; Visit millmountain.org/polkadots to learn more.
Support for Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical comes from all of MMT’s 2020 Season Sponsors: Avis Construction Company, Inc.; BB&T Wealth, Blue Ridge Beverage Co., Inc.; Boxley Materials Co.; Brandon Oaks Retirement Community; Business Solutions Inc.; chocolatepaper; Claytor / Wirt Associate; The Convergence Group at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; Davenport & Co.; Davis H. Elliot Co.; Dixon Hubard Feinour & Brown; Dominion Risk Advisors; The Dunkenberger Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley; Elk Hill Advisors, Inc.; Entre Computer Center; First Citizens Bank & Trust Co.; 5Points Creative; Freedom First Credit Union; Friendship Foundation; Frith Anderson + Peake; Gentry Locke Attorneys; The Glebe; Harry “Skip” W. Hamilton, III at Davenport & Company; John H. and Michelle S. Higginbotham Family Foundation; Howell’s Motor Freight Inc.; Innovative Insurance Group; Interactive Design Group; Jewell Machinery, Inc.; Lunsford, A Trustpoint Company; Member One Federal Credit Union; Miller, Long & Associates & Mr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Long; Oakey’s Funeral Service and Crematory; P1 Technologies, Inc.; Pinnacle Financial Partners; B. J. Preas; Roanoke Animal Hospital; The Roanoke Star.com; Roanoke Valley Orthodontics; Rutherfoord, a Marsh and McLennan Agency; Skyline Capital Strategies LLC; Skyline National Bank; Sun Tan City; Woods Rogers. Grantors include City of Roanoke Arts Commission; City of Salem; Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia; Sam and Marion Golden Helping Hand Foundation; The Kiwanis Club of Roanoke; The Louise R. Lester Foundation; Helen S. and Charles G. Patterson Foundation; National Endowment for the Arts; Southeastern Theatre Conference; Virginia Commission for the Arts; Actors’ Equity Association; Blue Star Theatres; Center in the Square; Theatre Communications Group; WVTF/Radio IQ.
Mill Mountain Theatre is an organization committed to welcoming all people into our theatre home, into our community and becoming a family.
To our African American colleagues especially, we grieve with you and are outraged with you at what we have all witnessed in the killing of George Floyd. We stand beside you and pledge to work with you for racial equality and racial justice.
We must give space for these hard conversations and necessary change to take place with passion and grace.
We must give space to hear and listen to each other with passion and grace.
We must give space to the healing capacity and support each other with passion and grace.
We must take our share of responsibility for what is happening to our world. We have the ability to reshape and make change. We too must do the work.
While performing arts communities across our nation are currently forced to take an intermission in our operations and programming, it gives us the gift of time to focus on our responsibility for change and to come back better and stronger. We must do this for each other, for everyone.
We will continue with our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion on the Board Level, Staff Level, Educational Level, in our programming, and with all of our Artists.
We accept the responsibility and charge ourselves to push the bar with the following:
We pledge that equity, diversity, and inclusion will be even greater priorities in our artistic work, education programs, and employment practices, and in our conversations with artists, partners and donors.
We pledge to support and stand with our Black colleagues, staff, artists, educators, students, and audiences, and we will hear and listen to their stories and perspectives.
We pledge to have these conversations and continually give space for them to happen.
We pledge to start the healing with the work toward racial justice and to provide the necessary support.
Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory is proud to present its 2020 Virtual Summer Camp Series running June 15 – July 17. Camps provide burgeoning artists of all ages the opportunity to hone their creative skills in acting, singing, dancing, and music theatre disciplines at the only equity professional theatre in the valley.
Camps are virtual sessions which offer students Pre K through 12 a variety of ways to explore their creativity and self-expression. All classes are taught by working theatre artists. Get a chance to flex your collaboration muscle and put on a show with a variety of different styled courses. Need-based scholarships are available on request: email travis@nullmillmountain.org for more information.
“The safety and well-being of our students and families is a priority for Mill Mountain Theatre.” says Ginger Poole, MMT Producing Artistic Director. “We are excited for the opportunity to bring these virtual camps to those who may not have been able to participate in camps in the past.” Please note the original summer camp schedule has changed to accommodate virtual camps.
Broadway Star: Donald Jones Jr. (Frozen, Aladdin, Chicago) directs and choreographs Mill Mountain Theatre’s upcoming Spring Musical: Dreamgirls, running March 25 – April 11 on the Trinkle MainStage. A dazzling journey through 20th-century American popular music, Dreamgirls follows the rising stardom of The Dreamettes, an all-girl Motown group from Chicago. Known for its 2006 feature film adaptation starring Jennifer Hudson, Dreamgirls is filled with show-stopping musical numbers from the genres of gospel, R&B, smooth pop, disco, and more.
“I’m really excited to be working with the entire team at Mill Mountain Theatre,” says Jones. “And thank you [to MMT’s Producing Artistic Director] Ginger, for your belief in my vision. It’s been 10 years since we first worked together on my first professional job outside of university, and it’s an honor to stage my first professional production with your support.”
Donald Jones Jr. is a director, choreographer, and performer, originally from New Orleans. In 2009 he graduated from Louisiana’s Northwestern State University and moved to NYC in 2013, where he has consistently performed both on and off Broadway for the past 6 years. In addition to his work as a performer in Frozen, Aladdin, and Chicago, Donald has staged numbers for numerous Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS variety shows, choreographed for Nick Jr.’s Blue’s Clues, and assisted with choreography for Netflix’s Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.
“This story is just one example of how black musicians paved the way for many of the music genres that inspire America. The themes of change and self-acceptance will be expanded upon in this production to mirror the diverse and dynamic women we celebrate today,” Jones says. “I am proud to have the opportunity to inspire new and young, diverse audiences with a story of triumph through the experiences of black artists. This is not only a black history musical, it’s an American history musical. Let’s make magic!”
Dreamgirls explores themes of ambition, hope, and betrayal, all set in the glamorous and competitive world of the entertainment industry. Dreamgirls has music by Academy Award nominee Henry Krieger, with book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award winner Tom Eyen. Songs include, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “I Am Changing,” “One Night Only,” and “Steppin’ To The Bad Side.”
Dreamgirls is Directed & Choreographed by Donald Jones Jr., Music Directed by Seth Davis, and Production Stage Managed by Bill Muñoz*, with Scenic Design by Jimmy Ray Ward, Lighting Design by Bill Webb, Costume Design by Keith Schneider, Properties Design by Matt Shields, Sound Engineering by Savannah Woodruff, Producing Artistic Direction by Ginger Poole, and Technical Direction by Karen Gierchak. *Appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association.
Dreamgirls is sponsored by Avis Construction Co.; BB&T Wealth; BEC Enterprises, Inc.; Brandon Oaks Retirement Community; Business Solutions, Inc.; Davenport & Company; Entre Computer Center; Harry “Skip” W. Hamilton, III at Davenport & Company; Howell’s Motor Freight, Inc.; Pinnacle Financial Partners; and Roanoke Valley Orthodontics. Grantors include Actors Equity Association, Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and WVTF Radio.
Dreamgirls begins performances on March 25 and runs through April 11 on the Trinkle MainStage. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling the box office at 540-342-5740.
Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory has selected the winning plays for their fourth annual Write Stuff! Young Playwrights Festival. Write Stuff! serves to connect Mill Mountain Theatre’s expanding education programming with its historical and ongoing commitment to new play development.
Write Stuff! Coordinator Christopher Castanho spoke to how the festival is evolving. “We could not be more excited about the growth Write Stuff! is having in its fourth year! MMT received a record-breaking number of submissions this year, so we decided to split the festival into two parts in order to give more young playwrights the opportunity to present their work. The first act of the evening will be readings of new plays, with actors at music stands, focusing on the words and diving deep into the world of the play. Our second act will consist of staged readings, with actors in costumes, holding their scripts, and beginning to put the plays on their feet.”
Mill Mountain Theatre professional artists have selected six winning plays to be workshopped this year. Three plays will receive readings and three will be produced in a staged reading format, all performed by Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory students and directed by MMT staff. The festival will take place at 7:00pm on February 22nd, 2020 on MMT’s Waldron Stage.
True Love, by Gracie Ridings, shares the story of Sandy, a sixteen-year-old girl who is told by a psychic that she will meet her Aquarius true love within the current moon cycle. Will Sandy meet the man of her dreams? Her best friend Minty will stop at nothing to see Sandy carried off into the sunset! True Love will be presented in our Reading Series. Gracie Ridings is ecstatic that her play has been chosen! She is a huge theatre nerd, and loves writing in her spare time. Gracie participates in both the onstage and offstage aspects of theatre and has enjoyed writing for a few years, particularly fiction writing where she gets to be so much more creative.
Okay, by Caroline Moledor, is a coming of age story, exploring the inner struggle of making friends and feeling like you belong. Follow Sam on her journey of growing up and becoming more comfortable in her own skin. Okay will be presented in our Reading Series. Caroline Moledor is a 9th grade Conservatory student who is thrilled to be participating for her 4th year as a playwright in Write Stuff! Besides writing, Caroline loves to perform and recently finished her 12th MMT credit, playing the role of Louisa von Trapp in The Sound of Music. She would like to thank Christopher Castanho and Michelle LoRicco for teaching her most everything she knows about playwriting. Love to Mom, Dad, Payton, and James.
Café Amor, by Serena Fick and Anna Clare Fleenor, is a hilarious and farcical tale set in Victorian era France. Forbidden romance, baguettes, and a poodle fill the Café Amor and run rampant with all of the creative characters that inhabit it. Café Amor will be presented in our Reading Series. Co-Playwright Serena Fick is thrilled to make her playwright’s debut with Mill Mountain Theatre. As a current senior at Salem High School, Serena has acted in multiple roles including Madame Le Beau in As You Like It and Madame Arcati in an upcoming production of Blithe Spirit. She is considering making “Madame” her official title. Serena plans to attend Warren Wilson College and aspires to one day eat 12 baguettes in one sitting. Co-Playwright Anna Clare Fleenor is also a senior at Salem High School, though she has always been more interested in writing and directing plays than acting in them. As well as theater, Anna Clare spends most of her time swimming competitively. She plans to attend Kenyon College next year to swim and study Environmental Studies, and, later, fall in love with a rich English man.
LoveFiguratively, by Conner Hunt, explores the chaotic world of speed dating. Join James Smith, a 34 year old who enjoys fast food dinners and short runs on the treadmill, as he meets a menagerie of kooky characters. Will James find love or just continue to pick up the crazies? LoveFiguratively will be presented in our Staged Reading Series. Playwright Conner Hunt is an 8th grader at Community School in Roanoke. He runs cross country and plays soccer, basketball, and baseball. Conner lives in Troutville with his parents and little sister, Katie, and is very excited about this opportunity to work with Mill Mountain on his first play.
The Third Wheels, by Ava Lazar, sheds light on the rivalry between the Prom Decor Club and the RPG (role-playing-games) club at the local high school. What starts out as an initiation prank between two students blossoms into a beautiful relationship. The Third Wheels will be presented in our Staged Reading Series. Playwright Ava Lazar is a 15-year-old playwright and filmmaker from Blacksburg High School. Her films have aired nationally on C-SPAN and usually cover local history and social justice. In her spare time, Ava reads, writes, and creates anything she can. She would like to thank Mill Mountain Theatre, as well as her supportive parents and sister.
Apple Apocalypse, by James Moledor, is an alternate-reality story of all apples being banned from the world. Young Mack Intosh goes on a vendetta to see that apples are reinstated, and he hopes to make his Granny Smith proud. Apple Apocalypse will be presented in our Staged Reading Series. James Moledor is an 8th grade homeschooler who is ecstatic to be back at Mill Mountain Theatre. This is his first time submitting for Write Stuff! and is thrilled to see his play performed. He enjoys writing, acting, singing, and dancing, and his most recent MMT performing credits include The Sound of Music (Friedrich), The Little Mermaid Jr. (Jetsam), and Shrek The Musical: TYA (Pinocchio). He would also like to thank his parents and sisters for all their love and support.
“Write Stuff! is an incredible experience for young artists to work on a new play process. It isn’t often that young people get to be involved in brand new plays: learning how scripts change, how characters are developed, and how to work with a playwright in the room,” says Travis Kendrick, Mill Mountain Theatre’s Director of Education. “Since the program’s inception, Mill Mountain Theatre has given this experience to young playwrights, who get to see their words come to life onstage as other young actors embody the characters that they have created. The new plays always perform to a full house, and each playwright participates in a talk-back discussion with the audience afterward,” he added.
Sponsors for Write Stuff! Include: Boxley Materials Co., Business Solutions, Inc., Davis H. Elliot Company Inc., The Dunkenberger-Waskey Group at Morgan Stanley, Innovative Insurance Group, and Pinnacle Financial Partners. Grantors include: Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, City of Roanoke Arts Commission, City of Salem, National Endowments for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.
Write Stuff! performs for one-night-only on Saturday, February 22nd at 7pm on MMT’s Waldron Stage. Tickets are only available at the door and are pay-what-you-can. Visit millmountain.org/write-stuff-2020 to learn more.
As we close our 2019 Season and take a look back at the year, we have much to celebrate and be thankful for. This is how you have made a difference at MMT in 2019…
A successful MainStage Season of musicals, dramas, and family programming that entertained over 15,800 patrons.
A growing Fringe Series, dedicated to programming contemporary and thought-provoking theatre with productions of “Next To Normal” and “Every Brilliant Thing” all thanks to the Friends of The Fringe, an affinity group supporting Fringe programming.
Continuing our Mill Mountain Music Series with tunes from “Music of the 60’s” and “Let’s Go To The Movies”.
A Conservatory program that is bursting at the seams with over 6,141 students. Classes and performance opportunities available for students Pre-K through Adult.
Distributed 2,077 free books as part of our Literacy Initiative, connecting theatre to reading.
Gave 38 Need-based scholarships to students to participate in our education program.
A partnership with Hollins University that supports two New Works Festivals at Mill Mountain Theatre, in addition to “Overnight Sensations”.
A partnership with Virginia Tech’s Arts Administrative Graduate programming, where Mill Mountain Theatre is a field study.
A thriving presence in our community with outreach programming at The West End Center, residencies in the YMCA After School Program and Share the Magic.
A continuing partnership with the Roanoke Parks & Rec programming a site specific production at the Fishburn Mansion.
And you, our fabulous patrons, that give us the reason and support to bring live, professional theatre to our community.
To learn more about the exciting shows and events in our 2020 Season, please visit our website here.
In everything we do at Mill Mountain Theatre, we are committed to creating quality theatre, making connections, preserving our legacy, and continuing our push to a strong future. With your support, we can continue to grow for our community and bring quality entertainment and education to your family.
Make a difference and help support the work that we are doing at Mill Mountain Theatre. Please consider making a gift today. Every donation has a big impact.
Here’s to a wonderful 2020. Thank you for being such a strong component of our Mill Mountain Theatre Family.
AUDITIONS FOR MILL MOUNTAIN THEATRE’S 2020 SEASON will be held at Pearl Studios in New York, NY: Monday, January 27 through Thursday, January 30, 2020. Equity callbacks will be held as needed on Wednesday January 29, and non-equity callbacks will take place as needed on Friday, January 31, 2020. An accompanist is provided.
January 27, Pearl Studios:
AEA Equity Principal Auditions: 9:00AM-12:00PM & 1:00PM-6:00PM
Equity Callbacks BY INVITATION ONLY: 9:30AM-12:30PM
(Lunch Break 12:30-1:00PM)
Equity Callbacks BY INVITATION ONLY: 1:00PM-3:00PM
Non-Equity Auditions BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 3:00PM-6:00PM
January 30, Pearl Studios:
Non-Equity Auditions BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: 9:30AM-12:30PM & 2:00PM-6:00PM
(Lunch Break 12:30-1:00PM)
***Dance Call: 1:00pm-2:00pm on the day of your appointment time, if auditioning for Dreamgirls, Cabaret, and Holiday Inn.
January 31, Pearl Studios:
Non-Equity Callbacks as needed: 10:00AM-6:00PM
AEA members: information about the EPA (January 27) and ECC (January 28), including relevant breakdowns, will go out through AEA.
Non-Equity: please read carefully below on how to submit for an appointment time:
If you are interested in receiving a Non-equity audition appointment, please email auditions@nullmillmountain.org with ‘NYC AUDITIONS’ in the subject line and include:
Headshot
Resume
Relevant reel footage
If you plan to prepare a Monologue, Song, or Both
Denote if you have local housing available (within ~30 miles of Downtown Roanoke).
*Please Note: We are not casting for our Summer Apprentice Company in New York. If you are a current college student or recent graduate and are interested in our Summer Apprentice Company, please attend our local auditions in Roanoke, VA, or submit a video audition to auditions@nullmillmountain.org.
PLEASE PREPARE:
A one-minute song, if auditioning for Dreamgirls, Cabaret, or Holiday Inn. We may ask to hear a one-minute monologue or contrasting one-minute song.
A one-minute monologue if auditioning for The Diary of Anne Frank or The Cake. We may ask you to read sides.
Actors of all ethnicities are encouraged to audition for all roles.
DREAMGIRLS
Music by Henry Krieger
Book and Lyrics by Tom Eyen
Directed and Choreographed by Donald Jones Jr.
Rehearsal: March 3 – 24, 2020
Previews & Performances: March 25 – April 11, 2020
EFFIE WHITE: Female, 20s-40s, African American, principal role. Confident and outspoken with emotional depth. Lead singer of the Dreamettes. Mezzo Soprano with powerful belt. Journeys from snappy confidence to depths of betrayal, triumphing in the end. Seeking an actor willing to dig deep emotionally.
DEENA JONES: Female, 18-40s, African-American, principal role. Backup (later lead) singer for the Dreamettes, moving from innocent and modest to “star.” Mezzo.
LORRELL ROBINSON: Female, 18-40s, African American, Principal role. Young, energetic, and outspoken. Eager for success and a romantic at heart. Backup singer of the Dreamettes. Soprano.
CURTIS TAYLOR, JR.: Male, 25-45, African American, Principal role. Cadillac dealer and manager of ‘The Dreamettes’. Charming, smooth, and funny, he’s ruthless in the pursuit of his dream. Tenor/High Baritone.
JAMES “THUNDER” EARLY: Male, 30s-50s, African American, Supporting role. A flashy star of early R&B soul singer, a trendsetter and showman. Seeking a Tenor with a strong falsetto.
C.C.WHITE: Male, 20s-30s, African American, Supporting role. Talented song writer and Effie’s brother. Tenor.
MICHELLE MORRIS: Female, 18-40, African American, Supporting role. Backup singer, replacement for Effie. Desires to stay out of the conflict. Mezzo Soprano.
MARTY MADISON: Male, 40s-60s, African American, Supporting role. Theatrical agent for J.T. Early. He is honest and loyal. Baritone.
ENSEMBLE: Male and Female, 18-40+, African American, except Dave & The Sweethearts could be white. Several smaller roles will be cast from this ensemble of singer-actors.
CABARET
Music and Lyrics by John Kander & Fred Ebb
Book by Joe Masteroff
Directed and Choreographed by Kristen Brooks Sandler
Rehearsals: (Non Eq start on May 25 / Equity start June 1) – June 24, 2020
Previews & Performances: June 25 – July 5, 2020
EMCEE: The host and Master of Ceremonies at the Kit Kat Klub. Gender-fluid and comfortable with being close to both men and women. Comedic, loveable, sinister. Requires agile stage movement and dance ability. Age range and appearance are flexible. Speaks with a German accent. Tenor (Middle C to High C#).
SALLY BOWLES: (20s-30s) A British Cabaret singer at the Kit Kat Klub. A quirky character that comes across as flighty, yet at times struggles with knowing the darkness of the reality of her life as a cabaret performer. Seeking compelling performer who is a strong actor, singer, and dancer. Speaks with a British Accent. Soprano with a belt (Low A to High C).
CLIFF BRADSHAW: (20s-30s) An American novelist and English teacher traveling to Berlin. Presented as a closeted gay man exploring his sexuality. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance. Speaks with an American accent. Tenor (Low A to High E).
FRAULEIN SCHNEIDER (50s+) A landlady who rents rooms in her large flat. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance (waltz). Speaks with a German accent. Alto (Low D to A flat above middle C).
HERR SCHULTZ: (50s+) One of Fraulein Schneider’s roomers and the proprietor of a Fruit Shop. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance. Speaks with a German accent. Tenor (Low G to High F).
FRAULEIN KOST: (30s-40s) Another of Fraulein Schneider’s roomers. She earns money by offering favours to sailors – presentation of the character should exhibit a strong sexual comfort and commanding nature. Comfortable with stage movement. Speaks with a German accent. Alto/Mezzo (Low A flat to High F).
ERNST LUDWIG: A friendly and Likeable German Sings in the Chorus. Takes English lessons from Cliff and smuggles funds for the Nazi Party. Comfortable with stage movement and some dance (waltz). Speaks with a German accent.
KIT KAT KLUB GIRLS: (20s-30s) Performers in the Kit Kat Club. Seeking a diverse group of women who are comfortable embracing their characters’ sexuality through movement and dance. Seeking strong singer-actors with excellent dance skills.
MALE ENSEMBLE: (20s-30s) Bobby, Victor, Kit Kat Klub Waiters, Patrons, others. Seeking a diverse group of men who are comfortable embracing their characters’ sexuality through movement and dance. Seeking strong singer-actors with excellent dance skills.
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
Book by Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett
Adapted by Wendy Kesselman
Directed by Billie Aken-Tyers
Rehearsals: September 1 – 22, 2020
Previews & Performances: September 23 – October 4, 2020
OTTO FRANK: (50s) Anne’s father and the patriarch of the annex. He leads with love and strength in all he does. He is practical, polite, and even-tempered, striving for peace in every situation. At 53, he has the resilience of a younger man, but the experience of his age to recognize the reality of the world around him.
EDITH FRANK : (40s) Anne’s reserved and nervous mother. She is soft-spoken and constantly worried about her family’s fate. She is close with her daughter Margot, and longs for a deeper connection with Anne. Despite her quiet demeanor, she has fortitude and will make her mind known when necessary.
PUTTI VAN DAAN: (40s-50s) The head of the Van Daans. An irritable former business partner of Mr. Frank, he is struggling to find his place as second in command. He is intelligent, pragmatic, and harsh. While in the annex, he wants to teach his son to be more outgoing and tough. Mr Van Daan is selfish and openly critical of others, especially Anne.
MRS. PETRONELLA VAN DAAN: (40s-50s) The vain and finicky wife of Mr. Van Daan. She is not ready to give up her lifestyle, and prizes the material things of life. She clings to her fur coat like others cling to their identity. She hides her fear of the unknown by worrying about the trite and frivolous. At the center of much of the conflict in the annex.
MIEP GIES: (30s) A well-liked, kind, and generous secretary from Mr. Frank’s office. She helps to protect the families in hiding, and is their connection to the outside world. Miep keeps them informed and fed, and though worried, she is determined to protect them.
MR KRALER: (40s) Otto Frank’s business partner. He helps to hide the members of the annex. He never questions his obligations to help the Franks and do what is right. Dignified, and at a loss for the world around him.
JAN DUSSELLl: (50s) Difficult to get along with, he is the only one in the annex without a family. A dentist by trade, he puts himself first. Skeptical by nature, Mr Dusselli has little patience for his roommate, Anne.
Nazi Officer and Two Dutch Collaborators (male, any age) Although these men do not come into the play until the end of the show, they are exceedingly important roles.
THE CAKE
By Bekah Brunstetter
Directed by Sarah Butts
Rehearsals: October 13 – November 4, 2020
Previews & Performances: November 5 – 8, 2020
DELLA: (40s-50s) North Carolinian, born and raised. A religious and socially conservative woman. Warm, pleasant, and caring; she has a maternal instinct despite not having children of her own. An old friend to Jen’s family; married to Tim.She sees herself as open-minded, but has not had the life experience to challenge the world-views with which she was brought up. A prolific and enthusiastic baker, she has been chosen as a contestant for The Great American Baking Show.
JEN: (Early 30s) Born and raised in North Carolina, but lives in Brooklyn. Is engaged to Macy. She is an experienced event planner with a compulsive attention to detail. Considerate, kind, and enthusiastic, she always sees the best in people. Her newfound liberal lifestyle and planning her lesbian wedding brings tension to her conservative hometown.
MACY: (Early 30s) Black, born and raised in New York. Jen’s fiancé; progressive, sharp, bold, and outspoken. Very confident in her belief system, she challenges those who think differently. Innately curious and inquisitive. She is who she is, and will not make compromises to coddle people’s feelings.
TIM: (40s+) Della’s husband and a good ol’ boy. He is a plumber with a good work ethic, who takes pride in providing for the household. He finds comfort in his traditional values, and hasn’t had a reason to question his beliefs. He is loving and loved, though perhaps not completely in touch with his emotions.
HOLIDAY INN
Based on the Film from Universal Pictures
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin
Book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge
Directed by Travis Kendrick
Choreographed by Kristen Brooks Sandler
Rehearsals: November 10 – December 1, 2020
Previews & Performances: December 2 – 20, 2020
JIM HARDY: (30s) Handsome, kind, sincere, and good-natured, he is a performer and singer-songwriter who is eager to leave showbiz behind for a simpler life on a farm in Connecticut. Lyric Baritone.
TED HANOVER: (30s) Jim’s best friend and performing partner; a charming flirt, he is looking for his big break. Seeking a strong dancer (in the style of Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly) who taps extremely well. Comedic role. Lyric Baritone.
LILA DIXON: (30s) A determined performer and Jim’s mismatched fiancée. She isn’t the smartest in town, but what she lacks in intelligence she makes up for with sheer determination and a love for the spotlight. Seeking a comedic actor and strong dancer who taps. Mezzo Soprano.
LINDA MASON: (30s) A school teacher with the hidden talents of a singer and dancer; lovely, charming, and funny. She is tough and distant at first, but is ultimately won over by Jim’s kindness, humor, and love of music. Mezzo Soprano with strong belt/mix.
LOUISE BADGER: (40s-50s) The local fix-it woman; tough, no nonsense, and extremely perceptive. Seeking a strong comedic actor with a great Mezzo/Alto belt voice.
DANNY: (30s-50s) The energetic and sarcastic manager for the musical act of Hardy, Hanover, and Dixon. He encourages Ted and Lila to move ahead with a double act while Jim tries to set up a normal life. Danny will stop at nothing to make his clients stars.
ENSEMBLE: (Various ages) Seeking a diverse group of strong singer-dancers who can tap, to play various roles (Announcer, dancers, radio personalities, Hollywood creative team, Midville townspeople, and Holiday Inn guests).
LOCAL AUDITIONS FOR MILL MOUNTAIN THEATRE’S 2020 SEASON will be held on January 24 & 25, 2020 from 9:00am – 6:00pm (The Dance Call will be held at the end of each day from 5:00-6:00pm).
Auditions will take place at the MMT Rehearsal Studio, located at 20 Church Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011 on the 3rd floor. Free and metered parking is available nearby. An accompanist will be provided.
If you are interested in auditioning, please email a headshot and resume to auditions@nullmillmountain.org with ‘ROANOKE AUDITIONS’ in the subject line. If you have a preference of Friday 24th or Saturday 25th as your audition day, please indicate this in the body of your email. AEA members may contact auditions@nullmillmountain.org to schedule an audition appointment. EMC and non-Equity actors will be seen as time permits at these auditions. EMC and non-Equity actors should still submit all materials to auditions@nullmillmountain.org for more information.
Non-Equity only: in the email submission, please denote if you have local housing (within ~30 miles of Downtown Roanoke) available.
***Students ages 16 and older who are interested in auditioning for ensemble roles in Cabaret and Holiday Inn should request an appointment time for these local auditions, and plan to attend the dance call.
Mill Mountain Theatre Staff in the audition room will include: Ginger Poole (Producing Artistic Director), Travis Kendrick (Director of Education), Christopher Castanho (Resident Creative), Victoria Buck (Education Associate), and Seth Davis (Resident Music Director & Accompanist).
PLEASE PREPARE:
A one-minute song if auditioning for: Dreamgirls, Cabaret, Holiday Inn, Golden Age of Broadway Concert, Crooners Concert, or the 2020 Apprentice Company*. We may ask to hear a one-minute monologue and/or contrasting one-minute song.
A one-minute monologue if auditioning for The Diary Of Anne Frank, The Cake, or the 2020 Apprentice Company*. We may ask you to read sides.
There will be a dance call from 5:00PM – 6:00PM on both audition days for all those auditioning for Dreamgirls, Cabaret, Holiday Inn, and the 2020 Apprentice Company*.
*The 2020 Apprentice Company is in residence for 12 weeks during the summer, and will have roles in Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical (touring production), Cabaret, and Cinderella.
Actors of all ethnicities are encouraged to audition for all roles.
DREAMGIRLS
Music by Henry Krieger
Book and Lyrics by Tom Eyen
Directed & Choreography by Donald Jones Jr
Music Directed by Seth Davis
Rehearsal: March 3 – 24, 2020
Previews & Performances: March 25 – April 11, 2020
EFFIE WHITE: Female, 20s-40s, African American, principal role. Confident and outspoken with emotional depth. Lead singer of the Dreamettes. Mezzo Soprano with powerful belt. Journeys from snappy confidence to depths of betrayal, triumphing in the end. Seeking an actor willing to dig deep emotionally.
DEENA JONES: Female, 18-40s, African-American, principal role. Backup (later lead) singer for the Dreamettes, moving from innocent and modest to “star.” Mezzo.
LORRELL ROBINSON: Female, 18-40s, African American, Principal role. Young, energetic, and outspoken. Eager for success and a romantic at heart. Backup singer of the Dreamettes. Soprano.
CURTIS TAYLOR, JR.: Male, 25-45, African American, Principal role. Cadillac dealer and manager of ‘The Dreamettes’. Charming, smooth, and funny, he’s ruthless in the pursuit of his dream. Tenor/High Baritone.
JAMES “THUNDER” EARLY: Male, 30s-50s, African American, Supporting role. A flashy star of early R&B soul singer, a trendsetter and showman. Seeking a Tenor with a strong falsetto.
C.C.WHITE: Male, 20s-30s, African American, Supporting role. Talented song writer and Effie’s brother. Tenor.
MICHELLE MORRIS: Female, 18-40, African American, Supporting role. Backup singer, replacement for Effie. Desires to stay out of the conflict. Mezzo Soprano.
MARTY MADISON: Male, 40s-60s, African American, Supporting role. Theatrical agent for J.T. Early. He is honest and loyal. Baritone.
ENSEMBLE: Male and Female, 18-40+, African American, except Dave & The Sweethearts could be white. Several smaller roles will be cast from this ensemble of singer-actors.
CABARET
Music and Lyrics by John Kander & Fredd Ebb; Book by Joe Masteroff
Directed & Choreographed by Kristen Brooks Sandler
Music Directed by Seth Davis
Rehearsals: (Non-Eq start on May 25 / Equity start June 1) – June 24, 2020
Previews & Performances: June 25 – July 5, 2020
EMCEE: The host and Master of Ceremonies at the Kit Kat Klub. Gender-fluid and comfortable with being close to both men and women. Comedic, loveable, sinister. Requires agile stage movement and dance ability. Age range and appearance are flexible. Speaks with a German accent. Tenor (Middle C to High C#).
SALLY BOWLES: (20s-30s) A British Cabaret singer at the Kit Kat Klub. A quirky character that comes across as flighty, yet at times struggles with knowing the darkness of the reality of her life as a cabaret performer. Seeking compelling performer who is a strong actor, singer, and dancer. Speaks with a British Accent. Soprano with a belt (Low A to High C).
CLIFF BRADSHAW: (20s-30s) An American novelist and English teacher traveling to Berlin. Presented as a closeted gay man exploring his sexuality. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance. Speaks with an American accent. Tenor (Low A to High E).
FRAULEIN SCHNEIDER (50s+) A landlady who rents rooms in her large flat. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance (waltz). Speaks with a German accent. Alto (Low D to A flat above middle C).
HERR SCHULTZ: (50s+) One of Fraulein Schneider’s roomers and the proprietor of a Fruit Shop. Must be comfortable with stage movement and some dance. Speaks with a German accent. Tenor (Low G to High F).
FRAULEIN KOST: (30s-40s) Another of Fraulein Schneider’s roomers. She earns money by offering favours to sailors – presentation of the character should exhibit a strong sexual comfort and commanding nature. Comfortable with stage movement. Speaks with a German accent. Alto/Mezzo (Low A flat to High F).
ERNST LUDWIG: A friendly and Likeable German Sings in the Chorus. Takes English lessons from Cliff and smuggles funds for the Nazi Party. Comfortable with stage movement and some dance (waltz). Speaks with a German accent.
KIT KAT KLUB GIRLS: (20s-30s) Performers in the Kit Kat Club. Seeking a diverse group of women who are comfortable embracing their characters’ sexuality through movement and dance. Seeking strong singer-actors with excellent dance skills.
MALE ENSEMBLE: (20s-30s) Bobby, Victor, Kit Kat Klub Waiters, Patrons, others. Seeking a diverse group of men who are comfortable embracing their characters’ sexuality through movement and dance. Seeking strong singer-actors with excellent dance skills.
POLKADOTS: THE COOL KIDS MUSICAL
Music and Lyrics by Douglas Lyons & Greg Borowsky
Book by Melvin Tunstall III
Directed & Choreographed by Christopher Castanho
Music Directed by Emma Gwin
Rehearsals: May 18 – 29, 2020
Performances: May 30- July 3, 2020
LILY POLKADOT: Female, plays 8 years old. Lily is the new kid in town – and the only one of her kind. She is polite, talented, and extremely intelligent. Mezzo soprano.
PENELOPE SQUARE: Female, plays 9 years old. Overly confident, bratty, loud, and loves the limelight; the world revolves around Penelope and we just happen to be living in it. She is the older sister to Sky Square, and is strongly against mixing Polkadot and Square people. Comedic mezzo soprano belter with soul.
SKY SQUARE: Male, plays 8 years old. Video games illuminate his imagination; he’s anxiously shy, friendly, quirky, and curious. He is the younger brother to Penelope Square and an admirer of Lily Polkadot. Soulful/rock bari-tenor up to A flat.
MRS. SQUARE: Adult Female. Mrs. Square is a 3rd Grade teacher at Rockville Elementary, responsible for integrating Polkadots and Squares; she’s the rational disciplinarian, yet also gentle and loving. Mezzo Soprano.
MAMA SQUARE: Adult Female. Sky and Penelope’s mother. Mama Square is a loud mouth, overbearing, and stuck in her ways. Mezzo Soprano.
(All roles in Polka Dots: A Cool Kids Musical will be played by members of the 2020 Apprentice Company)
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
Book by Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett
Adapted by Wendy Kesselman
Directed by Billie Aken-Tyers
Rehearsals: September 1 – 22, 2020
Previews & Performances: September 23 – October 4, 2020
OTTO FRANK: (50s) Anne’s father and the patriarch of the annex. He leads with love and strength in all he does. He is practical, polite, and even-tempered, striving for peace in every situation. At 53, he has the resilience of a younger man, but the experience of his age to recognize the reality of the world around him.
EDITH FRANK : (40s) Anne’s reserved and nervous mother. She is soft-spoken and constantly worried about her family’s fate. She is close with her daughter Margot, and longs for a deeper connection with Anne. Despite her quiet demeanor, she has fortitude and will make her mind known when necessary.
PUTTI VAN DAAN: (40s-50s) The head of the Van Daans. An irritable former business partner of Mr. Frank, he is struggling to find his place as second in command. He is intelligent, pragmatic, and harsh. While in the annex, he wants to teach his son to be more outgoing and tough. Mr Van Daan is selfish and openly critical of others, especially Anne.
MRS. PETRONELLA VAN DAAN: (40s-50s) The vain and finicky wife of Mr. Van Daan. She is not ready to give up her lifestyle, and prizes the material things of life. She clings to her fur coat like others cling to their identity. She hides her fear of the unknown by worrying about the trite and frivolous. At the center of much of the conflict in the annex.
MIEP GIES: (30s) A well-liked, kind, and generous secretary from Mr. Frank’s office. She helps to protect the families in hiding, and is their connection to the outside world. Miep keeps them informed and fed, and though worried, she is determined to protect them.
MR KRALER: (40s) Otto Frank’s business partner. He helps to hide the members of the annex. He never questions his obligations to help the Franks and do what is right. Dignified, and at a loss for the world around him.
JAN DUSSELLl: (50s) Difficult to get along with, he is the only one in the annex without a family. A dentist by trade, he puts himself first. Skeptical by nature, Mr Dusselli has little patience for his roommate, Anne.
NAZI OFFICER and TWO DUTCH COLLABORATORS: (male, any age) Although these men do not come into the play until the end of the show, they are exceedingly important roles.
THE CAKE
By Bekah Brunstetter
Directed by Sarah Butts
Rehearsals: October 13 – November 4, 2020
Previews & Performances: November 5 – 8, 2020
DELLA: (40s-50s) North Carolinian, born and raised. A religious and socially conservative woman. Warm, pleasant, and caring; she has a maternal instinct despite not having children of her own. An old friend to Jen’s family; married to Tim.She sees herself as open-minded, but has not had the life experience to challenge the world-views with which she was brought up. A prolific and enthusiastic baker, she has been chosen as a contestant for The Great American Baking Show.
JEN: (Early 30s) Born and raised in North Carolina, but lives in Brooklyn. Is engaged to Macy. She is an experienced event planner with a compulsive attention to detail. Considerate, kind, and enthusiastic, she always sees the best in people. Her newfound liberal lifestyle and planning her lesbian wedding brings tension to her conservative hometown.
MACY: (Early 30s) Black, born and raised in New York. Jen’s fiancé; progressive, sharp, bold, and outspoken. Very confident in her belief system, she challenges those who think differently. Innately curious and inquisitive. She is who she is, and will not make compromises to coddle people’s feelings.
TIM: (40s+) Della’s husband and a good ol’ boy. He is a plumber with a good work ethic, who takes pride in providing for the household. He finds comfort in his traditional values, and hasn’t had a reason to question his beliefs. He is loving and loved, though perhaps not completely in touch with his emotions.
HOLIDAY INN
Based on the Film from Universal Pictures
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin
Book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge
Directed by Travis Kendrick
Choreographed by Kristen Brooks Sandler
Music Directed by Seth Davis
Rehearsals: November 10 – December 1, 2020
Previews & Performances: December 2 – 20, 2020
JIM HARDY: (30s) Handsome, kind, sincere, and good-natured, he is a performer and singer-songwriter who is eager to leave showbiz behind for a simpler life on a farm in Connecticut. Lyric Baritone.
TED HANOVER: (30s) Jim’s best friend and performing partner; a charming flirt, he is looking for his big break. Seeking a strong dancer (in the style of Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly) who taps extremely well. Comedic role. Lyric Baritone.
LILA DIXON: (30s) A determined performer and Jim’s mismatched fiancée. She isn’t the smartest in town, but what she lacks in intelligence she makes up for with sheer determination and a love for the spotlight. Seeking a comedic actor and strong dancer who taps. Mezzo Soprano.
LINDA MASON: (30s) A school teacher with the hidden talents of a singer and dancer; lovely, charming, and funny. She is tough and distant at first, but is ultimately won over by Jim’s kindness, humor, and love of music. Mezzo Soprano with strong belt/mix.
LOUISE BADGER: (40s-50s) The local fix-it woman; tough, no nonsense, and extremely perceptive. Seeking a strong comedic actor with a great Mezzo/Alto belt voice.
DANNY: (30s-50s) The energetic and sarcastic manager for the musical act of Hardy, Hanover, and Dixon. He encourages Ted and Lila to move ahead with a double act while Jim tries to set up a normal life. Danny will stop at nothing to make his clients stars.
ENSEMBLE: (Various Ages) Seeking a diverse group of strong singer-dancers who can tap to play various roles (Announcer, dancers, radio personalities, Hollywood creative team, Midville townspeople, and Holiday Inn guests).
AUDITIONS FOR YOUTH ROLES IN MILL MOUNTAIN THEATRE’S 2020 SEASON will be held on Friday, February 7th from 4pm-8pm, and Saturday, February 8th from 10am-3pm.
TO REQUEST AN AUDITION TIME: email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org with your preference of audition day and list the shows for which you are interested in auditioning.
*Some auditionees may be asked to attend callbacks from 12:30pm-6pm on Sunday February 9th.
CASTING FOR:
Write Stuff! New Play Festival
Treasure Island (new musical adaptation)
Cinderella
Peter & Wendy (new adaptation)
The Diary Of Anne Frank (roles of Anne, Margot, and Peter)
Holiday Inn (role of Charlie Winslow)
LOCATION: MMT Rehearsal Studio (20 Church Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011 – 3rd floor). Free and metered parking is available nearby.
TO REQUEST AN AUDITION TIME: Email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.orgwith your preference of audition day and list the shows for which you are interested in auditioning.
DANCE CALL:If auditioning for Cinderella or Treasure Island, you must also attend the dance call on your audition day (Friday, February 7th from 7:00pm-8:00pm, or Saturday, February 8th from 2:00pm-3:00pm).
***Students ages 16 and older who are interested in auditioning for ensemble roles in Cabaret and Holiday Innshould request an appointment time for the January Local Auditions, and plan to attend that dance call. More information here: Local Auditions.
PLEASE PREPARE:
A one-minute monologue: if auditioning for Write Stuff!, Peter & Wendy, and The Diary Of Anne Frank.
A one-minute monologue ANDone-minute musical theatre song: if auditioning for Cinderella and Treasure Island. *Bring clearly marked sheet music for the accompanist.
***If auditioning for Cinderella andTreasure Island: you MUST also attend the dance call on your audition day:
-If auditioning on Friday, February 7th, the Dance Call is from 7:00pm-8:00pm.
-If auditioning on Saturday, February 8th, the Dance Call is from 2:00pm-3:00pm.
Actors of all races and ethnicities are encouraged to audition for all roles.
WRITE STUFF! New Play Festival
Rehearsals February 13 – 22, 2020
Performance February 22, 2020 at 7:30pm
Seeking: Middle & High School performers to perform roles in three selected ten-minute plays.
Treasure Island
Original Book by Robert Louis Stevenson
Music & Lyrics by Seth Davis
Book by Christopher Castanho
Directed by Travis Kendrick
(New Musical Adaptation)
Rehearsals: Monday through Saturday (Sundays off) from April 13 – May 1, 2020
Performances: Saturday May 2 – Saturday May 9, 2020
SEEKING: A company of middle and high school performers to play the following:
JEM HAWKINS: Female. The narrator of the story; a juvenile who finds a treasure map and embarks on an adventurous search for pirate treasure. Begins the story as an onlooker, and develops into an adventurous, courageous, risk-taker.
“CAPTAIN” BILLY/BILLIE BONES: Male (Female Playing). A boarder at the Admiral Benbow Inn, he is blustery but kind-hearted. Billy Bones is hiding from other pirates. The first mate of Captain Flint, and has Flint’s secret treasure map.
DOCTOR LIVESEY: Female. The town doctor and magistrate; fair, she is intelligent, fearless, and well-organized. Doctor Livesey joins Squire Trelawney and Jem in search of pirate treasure.
BLACK DOG: Male. A pirate “friend” who attacks Billy Bones at the inn.
SQUIRE TRELAWNEY: Male. A local wealthy hothead, Squire Trelawney finances a crew and a ship, the Hispaniola, to search for Capt. Flint’s treasure. Naive and trusting, Trelawney jumps to conclusions and miscalculates situations. Comic relief character. Blabs any secret.
ABIGAIL: Female. A sailor hired by Long John Silver to be crew on the Hispaniola, this is her first sea voyage. Becomes Jem’s confidant and best friend. Loyal & Brave.
LONG JOHN SILVER: Male. An old sea cook, Long John Silver signs on with Hispaniola crew as the cook, but is really the leader of the mutineers. A friend to Jim, Silver has a dual personality akin to Jeckyll and Hyde. Open, greedy, and merciless; has a parrot and wooden peg leg.
ISRAEL HANDS: Female. A member of the bad pirates; crafty and cunning.
BEN GUNN: Female. A marooned sailor, Ben Gunn has been alone on Treasure Island for three years before they are found by Jim/Gem. Provides some comic relief, Gunn is agile, smart, and kind.
CAPTAIN SMOLLETT: Male. Hired captain of the Hispaniola, Smollett is perceptive and calculating. Not funny at all.
6 ENSEMBLE: Seeking an ensemble of versatile actors to play Townspeople, Pirates, Sailors, and others.
CINDERELLA
Music by Richard Rodgers; Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II; Book by Douglas Carter Beane
Directed by Travis Kendrick
Music Directed by Seth Davis
Associate Directed by Christopher Castanho
Rehearsals July 6 – July 28, 2020
Performances July 29 – August 9, 2020
ELLA: A young lady with the kindest heart in the kingdom. Idealistic and hopeful, Ella sees the good in everyone, despite her hardships and suffering. Charismatic, opinionated, passionate, and funny. We see her blossom into a confident woman.
PRINCE TOPHER: A misguided, lost prince who longs to do something important with his life. Though brave and heroic, he feels lonely and unfulfilled. He is thoughtful, charming, moral, genuine, and kind-hearted, but needs a bit of guidance to realize his full potential.
MADAME: Ella’s wicked, selfish stepmother. A vain and tyrannical woman who is only concerned with her own daughters’ happiness. Unapologetic, dismissive and cruel; a schemer and social climber who values wealth, status, and material possessions above all else.
MARIE: Begins the show as the local beggar, then magically transforms into her true form and becomes Ella’s Fairy Godmother. Wise, warm, otherworldly, and compassionate. A friend to Ella, she rewards Ella for her kindness by making her dreams a reality.
JEAN-MICHEL: A feisty, passionate peasant determined to make a difference for the working class. He is an impetuous firebrand, but lacks authority and isn’t taken seriously as a revolutionary. He is in love with Gabrielle, despite the difference in social class.
GABRIELLE: Ella’s stepsister and Madame’s daughter. Initially selfish, but soon reveals to Ella that she would give up her riches to be with Jean-Michel. Quietly passionate, empathetic, and witty.
CHARLOTTE: Ella’s other stepsister and Madame’s daughter. She is brash, obnoxious, self-centered, loud, and bratty. She possesses a ridiculously high (and unfounded) opinion of herself, and never passes up the opportunity to be at the center of attention.
SEBASTIAN: The kingdom’s Lord Chancellor, and Topher’s trusted advisor. He is devious and selfish, using propaganda and dishonesty to keep Topher isolated and in the dark about his kingdom. Sebastian rules without regard for the lower class (or anyone besides himself).
LORD PINKLETON: The Lord Chancellor’s right-hand man. Announces royal balls, banquets, and even weather to the villagers.
ENSEMBLE: Knights, peasants, townspeople, ladies & gentlemen of the court, servants, etc.
Peter & Wendy
By J.M. Barrie
(New Adaptation)
Rehearsals: Approximately 3 times per week, from September 3 – October 10, 2020
Performances: October 10 – 18, 2020
SEEKING: A company of elementary and middle school performers to play:
PETER PAN – A free spirited and adventurous young boy who would not grow up. He can fly, and lives on an island called Neverland. He is charismatic, full of energy, and bold.
WENDY – a young girl, eldest child of the Darlings; later a grown woman;
mother-like and nurturing to her brothers and the Lost Boys
JOHN – Wendy’s younger brother, middle child of the three Darling children; has very few friends until they meet the Lost Boys
MICHAEL – Wendy’s youngest brother and third child of the Darling family; innocent and endearing, if a little mischievous
THE LOST BOYS – Tootles, Nibs, Slightly, Curly, & The Twins. A group of young boys who fell out of their baby carriages and weren’t claimed by their parents. They are adventurous, energetic, and playful, and each has their own unique quirk.
TINKER BELL – a fairy, and Peter’s constant companion. She is sassy, mischievous, and secretly in love with Peter.
CAPTAIN JAMES HOOK – The captain of the Jolly Roger and leader of the Neverland Pirates. He is Peter Pan’s arch-enemy and is determined to get revenge on Peter for losing his hand to the crocodile. He is threatening, sinister, elegant, and cruel.
TIGER LILY – A proud princess. She is beautiful, strong-willed, and a loyal friend to Peter Pan.
ENSEMBLE – Seeking an ensemble of versatile actors to play various roles, including: Pirates, Island Natives, the Crocodile, Mermaids, Mr. and Mrs. Darling, Nana, Liza, Jane, and others
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
Book by Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett
Adapted by Wendy Kesselman
Rehearsals: September 1 – 22, 2020
Previews & Performances: September 23 – October 4, 2020
ANNE FRANK: (plays 13-15 years old) A lively, curious girl, full of hope, passion, and belief in the good in the world. Begins the play as innocent, precocious, and outspoken, and as she matures, becomes more introspective, imaginative, and compassionate. She does not feel close to her mother, but idolizes her father. Anne is compelled to write, documenting every moment and feeling experienced while in the annex.
MARGOT FRANK: (plays 16-18 years old) Anne’s older sister. She is reserved, respectful, and quiet like her mother. Margot is modest, intelligent, and more mature than her sister Anne, though she loves her dearly. She feels alone in the annex and longs for deeper connections with others, but is unaware of how to achieve them.
PETER VAN DAAN: (16-18) The son of Mr. and Mrs. Van Daan, Peter is a shy, quiet teen. He soon becomes a friend and confidant for Anne, and they share their first kiss together. Heart-centric and protective, he is unsure of who he is and who he desires to become if given the chance to leave the annex.
HOLIDAY INN
Based on the Film from Universal Pictures
Music and Lyrics by Irving Berlin
Book by Gordon Greenberg and Chad Hodge
Rehearsals: November 10 – December 1, 2020
Previews & Performances: December 2 – 20, 2020
CHARLIE WINSLOW: (9-12 years old) A precocious, straight-forward, and practical young boy, though oddly charming. He is not one to mince words. He is one of Linda’s students who works part-time as a bank messenger.
TO REQUEST AN AUDITION TIME: Email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org with your preference of audition day and list the shows for which you are interested in auditioning.
Join us for Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory’s Holiday Coffeehouse on Tuesday, December 10th @ 6:00pm on the Waldron Stage (20 Church Avenue SE, Roanoke, VA 24011)
It’ll be a fun night of sharing talent with family and friends. Current students and alumni are welcome to sign up to perform: ***If you’d like to participate please contact Kim Hoyle & Bayla Kessler @ khoyle34@nullgmail.com & baylakessler@nullgmail.com to submit what you’d like to sing. They will give you a time to rehearse with your accompanist. *** MMT asks that your material be no longer than 4 minutes in length.
Rehearsal with Seth Davis will be from 4:00pm-6:00pm the day of the performance.
We are continuing our holiday coffeehouse tradition of collecting art supplies for boys and girls of all ages and monetary donations from our $1 bake sale / pay-what-you-can admission for our partner: HopeTree Family Services: who offer support for at-risk children and youth and their families across Virginia.
Mill Mountain Theatre has begun rehearsals for their upcoming holiday show: The Sound of Music, running December 4th – 22nd on the Trinkle MainStage. The cast is led by Roanoke’s own Emma Gwin (Maria), Broadway’s Timothy Booth* (Captain Georg von Trapp), and Mary Grace Gordon* (Mother Abbess).
The hills are alive in the Roanoke Valley this holiday season with the classic musical, The Sound Of Music! Best known for its film adaptation starring Julie Andrews, this 1959 classic such songs as “Climb Ev’ry Mountain”, “Do-Re-Mi”, and “The Sound of Music.” This show is perfect for the whole family to see during the holidays.
Share this heartwarming story with a cast that mixes national talent with your local favorites in Roanoke’s most beloved musical: The Sound of Music.
Also featuring Tess Olivia Marshall (Elsa), Phillip John Freebourn (Max), Kayla Ryan Walsh (Sister Berthe), Emma Lou DeLaney (Sister Margaretta), Billie Aken-Tyers (Sister Sophia), Ellen Frary (Liesel- Von), Haley Lynch (Liesel- Trapp), Oliver Farber (Friedrich- Von), James Moledor (Friedrich- Trapp), Taylor Berenbaum (Louisa- Von), Caroline Moledor (Louisa- Trapp), Hannah Conner (Brigitta- Von), Sylvia MacNab (Brigitta- Trapp), Beckett Socha (Kurt- Von), Griffin Shaver (Kurt- Trapp), Haley Morris (Marta-Von), Emma Lou Harvey (Marta- Trapp), Natalie Thorell (Gretl- Von), Riley Whisnant (Gretl- Trapp), Cody Edwards (Rolf), Devin Altizer (Franz), MaryJean Redon Levin (Frau Schmidt), Patrick Kennerly (Herr Zeller), Pat LoRicco (Baron Elberfeld), Jeffrey McGullion (Admiral Von Schreiber), Caroline Weston (Nun/Party Guest), Cindy Blevins (Baroness Elberfeld / Nun), Ashlinn Blevins (Maid/Nun), Emma Sala (Ursula/Nun), and Jackie Peale (Frau Zeller/Nun).
The Sound of Music is Directed by Ginger Poole and Christopher Castanho, with Music Direction by Seth Davis, Scenic Design by Jimmy Ray Ward, Costume Design by Jennie Ruhland, Lighting Design by Bill Webb, Props Design by Matt Shields, Sound Consultation by Ayme Gierchak, and Technical Direction by Karen Gierchak.
Sponsors for The Sound of Music include: Avis Construction Co.; Better Sofas, Inc; BJ Preas; Boxley; Brooks Financial Group; Business Solutions, Inc.; B2C Enterprises; Claytor/Wirt Associates; The Convergence Group at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; Dixon, Hubard, Feinour & Brown, Inc.; Freedom First Credit Union; Frith Anderson + Peake; Gentry Locke Attorneys; Jewell Machinery; Lanford Brothers Co.; Lunsford, a Trustpoint Company; Member One Federal Credit Union; Miller, Long & Associates, Inc. and Mr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Long; Oakey’s Funeral Service and Crematory; Pinnacle Financial Partners; Roanoke Animal Hospital; Roanoke Gas Company; Roanoke Valley Orthodontics; Rutherfoord, A Marsh & McLennan Agency; Skyline National Bank; Steel Dynamics; Sun Tan City; and Trane.
Grantors include Actors Equity Association, Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, National Endowment for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and WVTF Radio.
Celebrate the holiday season this year with tickets to The Sound Of Music, running December
4th – 22nd on the Trinkle MainStage. Tickets can be purchased online at millmountain.org or by calling 540-342-5740.
AUDITIONS for Music Theatre Conservatory, Acting Conservatory, and “Timeless Twenties – An Immersive Prohibition Experience.” will take place on December 3rd from 3:30-5:30pm at MMT’s Waldron Stage. (20 Church Ave SE, Roanoke, Virginia 24011)
CASTING: Music Theatre Conservatory Class (Middle & High School) and Acting Conservatory Class (Middle & High School), Timeless Twenties- An Immersive Prohibition Experience (High School & Adult)
TO REQUEST AN AUDITION TIME: email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org with your preference of audition time and list the classes or production for which you are interested in auditioning.
PLEASE PREPARE:
-If auditioning for the Music Theatre Conservatory class please prepare a one minute selection of a musical theatre song and a one minute monologue.
-If auditioning for the Acting Conservatory class please prepare a one minute monologue.
-If auditioning for Timeless Twenties please prepare either a one-minute song (jazz standard preferred, can be musical theatre) or one-minute monologue (preferably in the style of 1920s- can be from a movie during that time).
MUSIC THEATRE CONSERVATORY CLASS:
Seeking Middle & High School Aged Students who wish to be a part of MMT’s Audition-Only Music Theatre Class. Music Theatre Conservatory classes will be held on Tuesdays from 7pm-9pm, February 4 – March 31
ACTING CONSERVATORY CLASS:
Seeking Middle & High School Aged Students who wish to be a part of MMT’s Audition Only Acting Class. Acting Conservatory classes will be held on Wednesdays from 7pm-9pm, February 5 – April 1.
TIMELESS TWENTIES- AN IMMERSIVE PROHIBITION EXPERIENCE
Timeless Twenties will take place at the Historic Fishburn Mansion and be an evening full of musical acts, casino games, and more. Rehearsals will be during the weekends: January of 2020 and performances on January 31 – Feb 2nd, 2020
Seeking High School and Adult aged performers and instrumentalists for roles in Mill Mountain Theatre and Play Roanoke’s collaborative immersive theatrical experience.
Seeking Musical Performers (Singers and Instrumentalists) and Actors to be 1920’s gangsters, Cigar Box Girls, Police Officers, and more!
TO REQUEST AN AUDITION TIME: email conservatoryauditions@nullmillmountain.org with your preference of audition time and list the classes for which you are interested in auditioning.
*Auditions for our 2020 Season will be held in January & February. Audition Accommodations can be made for adults who are unable to audition for Timeless Twenties on December 3rd.*
The cast of Mill Mountain Theatre’s upcoming one-man showhas been announced. Every Brilliant Thing runs Nov 7 – 10 in the renovated Green Box: Waldron Stage.
“You’re six years old. Your mother’s in the hospital. You’re told she finds it hard to be happy. So you start making a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world: 1. Ice Cream, 2. Kung Fu Movies, 3. Laughing so hard you shoot milk out of your nose.” Touching, funny, and brilliantly stripped-down, Every Brilliant Thing is a one-man show about an individual’s journey with their mother and her struggle with mental health. The Guardian calls it “Heart-wrenching, hilarious…possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see.”
Every Brilliant Thing will feature Michael Amendola*, an NYC-based actor, producer and musician from Texas. Michael has worked Off-Broadway in Drunk Shakespeare (over 600 performances) and The Last Jew of Boyle Heights. Regionally, Michael has worked with the American Shakespeare Center, ZACH Scott and Austin Shakespeare, among others. IG: @dolagraphy www.michaelamendola.me
Every Brilliant Thing will be directed by Sarah Butts, Production Stage-Managed by Jessica Taylor Edwards*, Scenic Coordination and Technical Direction by Karen Gierchek, Lighting Design by Jimmy Ray Ward, Prop Design by Matt Shields, and Sound Design by Savannah Woodruff. *Jessica Taylor Edwards & Michael Amendola appear of Actors’ Equity Association.
Sponsor of Every Brilliant Thing is Friends of the Fringe. Grantors include Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, City of Roanoke Arts Commission, City of Salem, National Endowments for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group and Virginia Commission for the Arts.
Every Brilliant Thing runs November 7 – 10 in the renovated Green Box, MMT’s Waldron Stage. Tickets can be bought online at millmountain.org or at the box office: 540-342-5740. Don’t wait to get your tickets, only 100 seats per-performance.
Rehearsals are in full swing at Mill Mountain Theatre for William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet! The show will open on October 19th and run until October 26th on MMT’s Waldron Stage. The classic tale of star-crossed lovers is re-envisioned in a new imaginative and theatrical telling on the Waldron Stage. Shakespeare’s most famous play about love, family feuds, and inevitable tragedy takes on a new life through the work of local youth performers.
Resident Creative, Christopher Castanho sat down with the show’s two leads: Jacob Wadstrom (Romeo) and Haley Chey Lynch (Juliet) and heard what it’s like performing such a classic and iconic play at the region’s only equity theatre.
Tell me a little bit about yourself (where you’re from, how old you are, where you go to school).
JACOB: My name is Jacob Wadstrom, I am a 17-year-old senior at North Cross School and I’ve lived in Roanoke my whole life. I’ve been acting since I was in fourth grade and this is actually my third time performing Shakespeare, I was previously in The Tempest at MMT. I am absolutely thrilled to be performing at Mill Mountain Theatre again!
HALEY: I’m Haley Chey Lynch, I’m 16 years old, and I was born in Roanoke Virginia. I’m an only child of two older parents and a mom of two dogs and a cat. Ihave been performing for as long as I can remember and have decided to graduate early this year from Patrick Henry High School.
Haley Chey Lynch (Juliet) and Jacob Wadstrom (Romeo) in rehearsal.
What’s your favorite part of the show?
HALEY: I love the spectrum of emotions that Juliet feels throughout the show, I love the variety but also the complexity of how she feels. I also adore my cast members who make it such an incredible experience. Some of my favorite parts of our production are the fights, balcony scene and interesting twist we put on all of the adult characters.
JACOB: I think my favorite part of the show is also the balcony scene because it is such a cool reimagining of a scene everyone knows. I don’t want to spoil anything, but we have this ladder that I climb on, and it spins and I always feel like I’m in a movie. I find the scene so relatable because I think we’ve all experienced a night that just seems so incredible that you never want it to end.
Why is Romeo & Juliet relevant today?
HALEY: It is a forever love story just like other stories everyone knows (West Side Story, Aida).
JACOB: I think Romeo and Juliet is one of those forever love stories because of themes: questioning long-standing institutions and that kind of love that transcends all boundaries. In the original text, the conflict is between two wealthy families unnecessarily feuding, but it can serve as the perfect metaphor for how any rift between two groups can be bridged by people who don’t care about anything other than those they love, not where they come, not the inhibitions of others, nothing but love.
HALEY: Especially with the theme and view we take in this production, it’s relevance shows through the difference and gap between adults and youth. It’s just such an iconic love story through the ages, everyone knows it!
The full company of MMT’s Romeo and Juliet.
What makes this production special?
JACOB: I think what makes this production so special is how intimate the space is and how well this incredible cast makes the heightened language seem so natural and relatable. The world that this cast builds, under the brilliant direction of our fearless leader, Travis, is so believable because there is a mutual trust between everyone involved.
HALEY: Not to mention that we are all youth! All of us are in school, so it’s a joy to learn alongside each other in this process. We also incorporate many different themes and ideas into this production that make it so special, entertaining, and unique!
JACOB: The passion that everyone has for this piece of theatre is so inspiring that we all are constantly bringing the most we can to every scene. The venue coupled with the direction makes the audience feel like they are right there in Verona with us.
Why do you think people should come see Romeo and Juliet?
HALEY: Support the arts! Come witness the power of youth on stage in this forever story. And of course, fall in love again with the age and speech of Shakespeare and passion shown through many years.
JACOB: I hope people get a new perspective on a Shakespearian classic that is as engaging and fun as it is heartbreaking. I think people will love all of our exciting fight scenes, they’re quite reminiscent of The Princess Bride. But I have to echo Haley when I say, come experience live theatre, have a fun night and maybe even fall in love with Shakespeare.
Romeo and Juliet runs October 19 – 26 on the Waldron Stage. General admission tickets are available only at the door, 30 minutes in advance of each performance, and are ‘pay what you can’. For any additional information, visit millmountain.org.
In conjunction with this production, MMT will distribute free books to children in attendance as part of their initiative connecting theatre to literacy.
Romeo and Juliet features Jacob Wadstrom (Romeo), Haley Chey Lynch (Juliet), Kira Shelor (Nurse), Charles Meidlinger (Friar Lawrence), Isaac Bouldin (Mercutio), Caroline Weston (Benvolio), Ann Marie Thorell (Peter, Abraham, & others), Bayla Kessler (Sampson, Friar John, & others), Simon Elliott (Paris), and Ryan Ramey (Tybalt). Romeo and Juliet is adapted and directed by Travis Kendrick, associate directed by Victoria Buck, and production stage managed by Tatiana Durant.
Rehearsals have begun for William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet at Mill Mountain Theatre! Romeo and Juliet is part of MMT’s Young Audiences Series: producing theatre by young people, for young people. The classic tale of star-crossed lovers is re-envisioned in a new imaginative and theatrical telling on the Waldron Stage. Shakespeare’s most famous play about love, family feuds, and inevitable tragedy takes on a new life through the work of local youth performers.
Romeo and Juliet is best suited for families with middle and high school students. This production features student performers, designers, and technicians. Each of the Pay-What-You-Can performances will include the distribution of free books to student audience members as part of our initiative connecting theatre to literacy.
Romeo and Juliet features Jacob Wadstrom (Romeo), Haley Chey Lynch (Juliet), Kira Shelor (Nurse), Charles Meidlinger (Friar Lawrence), Isaac Bouldin (Mercutio), Caroline Weston (Benvolio), Ann Marie Thorell (Peter, Abraham, & others), Bayla Kessler (Sampson, Friar John, & others), Simon Elliott (Paris), and Ryan Ramey (Tybalt). Romeo and Juliet is adapted and directed by Travis Kendrick, associate directed by Victoria Buck, and production stage managed by Tatiana Durant.
Sponsors for Romeo and Juliet include: Business Solutions, Inc., B.J. Preas, Carilion Clinic, Claytor/Wirt Associates, Davis H. Elliot Company, Kiwanis Club of Roanoke, Tina and Jay Jindal, Innovative Insurance Group, and Roanoke Valley Orthodontics. Grantors include Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, City of Roanoke Arts Commission, City of Salem, National Endowments for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.
Romeo and Juliet runs October 19 – 26 on the Waldron Stage. General admission tickets are available only at the door, 30 minutes in advance of each performance, and are ‘pay what you can’. To book group tickets for a student matinee, contact Emma Gwin (emma@nullmillmountain.org). For any additional information, visit millmountain.org.
Mill Mountain Theatre announced their 2020 Season with a joyous celebration and performance on the Trinkle MainStage.The theatre’s 2020 season will consist of three MainStage productions on the Trinkle, five productions for Young Audiences, two productions in the Fringe Series, and two concerts in their Music Series. A brilliant balance of shows that all will enjoy.
TRINKLE MAINSTAGE SERIES
Three big-cast shows of drama, comedy, music, and family fun, all with impressive production quality.
A dazzling journey through 20th-century American popular music, Dreamgirls follows the rising stardom of The Dreamettes, an all-girl Motown group from Chicago. Known for its 2006 feature film adaptation starring Jennifer Hudson, and filled with show-stopping musical numbers from the genres of gospel, R&B, smooth pop, disco, and more, Dreamgirls explores themes of ambition, hope, and betrayal, all set in the glamorous and competitive world of the entertainment industry. Dreamgirls has music by Academy Award nominee Henry Krieger, with book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award winner Tom Eyen. Songs include, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “I Am Changing,” “One Night Only,” and “Steppin’ To The Bad Side.”
“I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart.” Thirteen-year-old Anne Frank wrote in her diary to better understand herself and the horrors of being Jewish in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. In this transcendently powerful new adaptation by Wendy Kesselman, Anne Frank emerges from the pages of history as a living, lyrical, and intensely gifted young girl. An impassioned drama about the lives of eight people hiding from the Nazis in a concealed storage attic, The Diary of Anne Frank captures the claustrophobic realities of their daily existence—their fear, their laughter, their grief, and their hope. This adaptation breathes new life into this iconic tale.
Based on the 1942 Paramount Pictures film of the same name, Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn tells the story of Jim, who leaves behind the bright lights of show business to settle down in a small farmhouse in Connecticut. His luck takes a spectacular turn when he meets Linda, a spirited schoolteacher with talent to spare. Together, they turn the farmhouse into a fabulous inn where they put on dazzling performances to celebrate each holiday, from Thanksgiving to the Fourth of July. Will Jim be able to salvage his latest chance at love when his best friend Ted tries to lure Linda away? Celebrate the holiday season with this joyous musical features thrilling tap-dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy, and a parade of hit Irving Berlin songs, including “Blue Skies,” “Easter Parade,” “Steppin’ Out With My Baby,” “Heat Wave,” “Be Careful, It’s My Heart,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “Shaking the Blues Away,” and many more!
Willkommen to the Kit Kat Club! Set in a 1920’s Berlin nightclub, a garish Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the Cabaret. Cliff, a young American writer newly arrived in Berlin, is immediately taken with British Cabaret singer Sally Bowles. Using the Emcee’s bawdy songs as wry commentary, Cabaret explores the dark and tumultuous life of Berlin’s natives and expatriates as Germany slowly yields to the emerging Third Reich. Featuring some of the most memorable songs in musical theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Two Ladies,” and “Maybe This Time,” this Tony Award-winning masterpiece by John Kander, Fred Ebb, and Joe Masteroff is more relevant today than ever. So, “come to the cabaret my friends! Come to the cabaret!”
When Della, a North Carolina baker and devout Christian, is asked to bake a wedding cake for her best friend’s daughter, she is overjoyed – until she finds out that the bride’s intended is another bride. For the first time in her life, Della is forced to think for herself, examine her deeply-held belief in “traditional marriage,” and make a decision that may turn her entire life upside-down. Inspired by true events, this hilarious and delicious play by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC’s This Is Us) is proof that love is the key ingredient in creating common ground.
YOUNG AUDIENCE SERIES
Four delightful productions all encouraging literacy and for children to read.
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s classic musical, Cinderella, truly sparkles in this new, Tony Award-winning adaptation that won the hearts of audiences everywhere. Cinderella features some of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible,” and “Ten Minutes Ago,” alongside a hilarious and romantic libretto by Tony Award nominee Douglas Carter Beane, featuring some new characters and surprising twists! This full-length production on the Trinkle MainStage will feature local youth performers and is perfect for the whole family. In conjunction with this production, MMT will distribute free books to children in attendance as part of our initiative connecting theatre to literacy. Hurry– get your tickets– before the clock strikes twelve!
8-year-old Lily Polkadot just moved to the “Squares Only” small town of Rockaway, and is the first Polkadot in an all Square school. Experiencing everything from daily bullying to segregated drinking fountains, Lily feels hopeless until she meets Sky, a shy Square boy whose curiosity for her unique polkadot skin blooms into an unexpected friendship. Inspired by Civil Rights pioneers Ruby Bridges and The Little Rock Nine, Polkadots serves as a colorful history lesson for the world, reminding us that our differences make us awesome, not outcasts. MMT will delight families everywhere by performing this touring show at schools, libraries, parks, and neighborhood venues around the region. Admission is free, and MMT will distribute free books to student audience members as part of our initiative connecting theatre to reading and literacy.
MMT’s young playwrights festival Write Stuff! returns for its fourth year, encouraging young writers to submit their short plays to be produced as staged readings on the Waldron Stage. Students, see your characters come to life on the MMT stage! The competition is open to all middle and high-school students, and the deadline for submissions is December 31st, 2019. Mark that on your calendar, folks! Several short plays will be selected from the submissions by a panel of readers, and will then be workshopped, produced in a staged reading format, and performed by Mill Mountain Theatre Conservatory students.
Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale, this swashbuckling adventure shares the story of a young man in the midst of a race against Long John Silver to find buried treasure. Filled with mystery, scurvy pirates, and cheery sea shanties, Treasure Island is an expedition you don’t want to miss. This original musical will make its world-premiere on the Waldron Stage at Mill Mountain Theatre, and feature local students as performers, designers, and technicians. All public performances will be “pay what you can,” and include the distribution of free books to students as part of our initiative connecting theatre to reading and literacy.
Fly to Neverland with Peter Pan and Wendy Darling in this new adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s most famous novel. Local student-performers will welcome audience members into a world full of mermaids, fairies, and pirates on the Waldron Stage for a performance that will mesmerize patrons of all ages. The original adaptation will also feature local students as designers and technicians. All public performances will be “pay what you can,” and include the distribution of free books to students as part of our initiative connecting theatre to reading and literacy.
MUSIC SERIES
Two musical concerts, with four fun-filled nights of well known tunes.
Enjoy the sweeping and illustrious music of Broadway’s Golden Age in our Golden Age of Broadway concert on the Trinkle MainStage. Throughout the evening, enjoy songs from the Great White Way’s most iconic composers: Cole Porter (Anything Goes, Kiss Me Kate), Rodgers and Hammerstein (Sound of Music, South Pacific, Carousel, The King and I), Leonard Bernstein (West Side Story, On The Town), Irving Berlin (Annie Get Your Gun), Lerner and Lowe (My Fair Lady), Frank Loesser (Guys and Dolls), and more! Featuring a live band and singers, this concert is produced by MMT in just a week and plays for two nights only!
Remember some of the most celebrated entertainers of our time at our Music of the Crooners concert. Sit back and enjoy tunes originated by the velvety voices of singers like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Tony Bennett, and more. Pop standards from the Great American Songbook will leave you humming all the way home. Featuring a live band and singers, this concert is produced by MMT in just a week and plays for two nights only!
Season subscriptions are available on Oct 1st on their website. There are many different packages visit millmountain.org/tickets/subscriptions:
Trinkle Productions – Package includes: Dreamgirls, Cinderella (Young Audiences on Trinkle), The Diary of Anne Frank, and Holiday Inn.
Music Series – Package includes: Golden Age of Broadway and Music of the Crooners.
The Fringe Series – Package includes: Cabaret and The Cake.
All In Package – Package includes: Dreamgirls, Cinderella (Young Audiences on Trinkle), The Diary of Anne Frank, Holiday Inn, Golden Age of Broadway, Music of the Crooners, Cabaret, and The Cake.
Single tickets go on sale: December 1st.
Visit millmountain.org or call 540-342-5740 for more information
MMT Staff joins the Cast & Creative Team of The Glass Menagerie
The cast of Mill Mountain Theatre’s upcoming production of the classic drama The Glass Menagerie is gearing up for their first public performance next Wednesday, September 25th. Returning Roanoke favorites include Amy Baldwin* (Donna in Mamma Mia! and Diana in Next To Normal) and Logan T. Sutton (Pepper in Mamma Mia!)
Said to be one of the greatest plays in the 20th Century, The Glass Menagerie is the “memory play” that catapulted beloved playwright Tennessee Williams to fame. This riveting drama is set in 1937’s St. Louis, and follows the fragile Wingfield family: Tom, an aspiring poet, his painfully shy sister Laura, and their mother Amanda, a faded southern belle. Dreams and reality collide in this play of exquisite beauty. The Glass Menagerie runs September 25 through October 6 on the Trinkle MainStage.
Tennesee William’s The Glass Menagerie featuresAmy Baldwin* (Amanda), Logan T. Sutton (Tom), Lauren Wainwright* (Laura), and David Federman (Jim). The Glass Menagerie will be Directed by Peppy Biddy, Production Stage Managed by Jessica Taylor Edwards*, Lighting Design by Bill Webb, Scenic Design by Jimmy Ray Ward, Costume Design by Jessica Gaffney, Properties Design by Matt Shields, Technical Direction by Karen Gierchek, Sound Design by Savannah Woodruff, and Sound Engineered by Pat LoRicco. *Appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association
The Glass Menagerie runs September 25 through October 6 on the Trinkle MainStage. Tickets can be bought online at millmountain.org or at the box office: 540-342-5740.
Amy Baldwin* (Amanda) is honored to return to Mill Mountain Theatre for the third time this year. Favorite regional credits include: Next to Normal (Diana– at MMT) Tracy Lord (The Philadelphia Story), Scarecrow (Wizard of Oz), Beatrice (Much Ado About Nothing), Reagan (King Lear), Ruth Condomine (Blithe Spirit). Amy is a proud AEA member & thinks dogs the best–particularly rescue dogs. *Appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association.
Logan T. Sutton (Tom) is grateful to be returning to Mill Mountain after his debut as Pepper in “Mamma Mia!” earlier this year. Prior to this he had just finished a run of “Your Alice” at BAM Off-Broadway and Edinburgh Fringe as the Swing. NYC Theatre: Homer (Floyd Collins), Percy Shelley (Mary’s Little Monster), Slightly (Peter Pan). Regional Theatre: Orlando (As You Like It), Claudio (Much Ado About Nothing), Rocky (Damn Yankees). BFA Elon University.
Lauren Wainwright* (Laura) Regional: ONCE (Florida Studio Theatre, Theatre Raleigh), VIOLET, THE WINTER’S TALE, BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS, GUYS AND DOLLS (Festival 56), LOVE’S LABOURS LOST (Great Lakes Theatre), MEDEA (Hydrama Theatre, Greece). New York: Lots of Shakespeare and children’s theatre from Off-Broadway to Bryant Park. Film: “The Ides of March.” Follow along: @wrenwainwright *Appears courtesy of Actors’ Equity Association.
David Federman (Jim) is thrilled to be working on his first production with Mill Mountain. Past credits include: Apemantus in Timon of Athens with the Fools & Kings Project, Doug in Gruesome Playground Injuries with Alliance Repertory Theatre, and Laertes in Hamlet with Stag and Lion. www.davidfederman.net
Sponsors for The Glass Menagerie include Business Solutions, Inc., The Glebe, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Skyline National Bank, and The W.E. McGuire Foundation. Grantors include Blue Star Theatres, Center in the Square, City of Roanoke Arts Commission, City of Salem, National Endowments for the Arts, Theatre Communications Group and the Virginia Commission for the Arts.
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