North Coast News and Auditions

It's 2008, and North Coast stages are slowly getting filled again.

CenterArts is bringing in another touring musical--or rock opera, as some call it-- to the Van Duzer: Jesus Christ Superstar, on Tuesday and Wednesday, January 8 and 9, at 8 pm. This A.L. Webber and Tim Rice composition stars Ted Neeley, who starred in the film version in 1973, and costars (as Judas) Corey Glover, lead singer of Living Colour, in his stage debut. Tickets are $65, $55 for HSU students. At this point, I am just biting my tongue. Betti Trauth has a preview at the T-S, as well as her bests in theatre for 2007.

Ferndale Repertory Theatre will hold auditions for the anti-war, Summer of Love rock musical HAIR on Sunday, January 27th at 1PM and Monday, January 28th at 6:30PM at the Carson Block building, 517 Third Street, Eureka. Musical Director Tom Phillips and Director Vikki Young are looking for young men and women of all ethnic groups, ages 18-35. Note that some major roles have been pre-cast.

ACTORS should be prepared to sing with their own accompaniment (a CD player will be provided-- a capella accepted but not preferred). Choreographer Linda Maxwell requests that all actors dress comfortably and be prepared to perform several simple dance routines. Scaffolding will be a major part of the set and most actors will be required to perform without physical limitations.
The theatre is also looking for persons interested in the technical and backstage positions. Please call the theatre (707) 786-5483 with your contact information and we will get back to you.

PRODUCTION DATES are April 3 – May 4 for a total of sixteen shows in a five-week run. Rehearsals will start in February. There will be an Actor’s Benefit Night on May 1, 2008. Scripts are available for perusal at the theatre and at the HSU Library Reserve desk. Note that scripts from the theatre and the library may not be taken home. For more information, please call the Ferndale Rep at (707) 786-5483 and ask for Marilyn.

Speaking of Marilyn, maybe I just didn't notice it before, but according to its web site, Ferndale Rep is looking for a new executive director, because Marilyn McCormick is retiring at the end of this season.

Ferndale's next show is the courtroom drama, 12 Angry Men, directed by Gene Cole. It opens Friday, January 25, with a preview the night before.

The week before that, North Coast Repertory Theatre opens Marat/Sade, on Thursday, January 17.

Staged radio shows have become the rage around here suddenly, the next one by Redwood Curtain. Billed as their first show of the 2008 season, it's called Zounds! It's on January 26 at the Wharfinger Building. There's drinks and dinner as well as the show. For more: Redwood Curtain.