Gillian Pearson and Michelle Dunning are a dynamic Blaine Lake duo taking their musical and drama experience to another level.
The lively duo will be holding open auditions for Annie, a Broadway musical based on the Little Orphan Annie comic strip, March 12 and 13 at the Blaine Lake curling rink.
There are many roles for both males and females of all age levels. The cast, including the chorus, will require approximately 15 adults aged 16 years and older and 12 children aged six to 15.
Both Gillian and Michelle agree that there are many talented children and adults in Blaine Lake and Valley area that would be ideal for the acting parts in the production.
"The response so far has been good," commented Gillian explaining that they already sent out audition pieces.
Currently, interested individuals are able to request which part they would like to audition for but sometimes, during the audition, the directors witness a trait or characteristic that is best suited as another cast member. Anyone interested in performing is encouraged to audition regardless of their acting and singing skills.
"We don't want anyone to feel intimidated, we will do our best to accommodate them," commented Michelle. "We plan to be very accommodating and flexible," added Gillian explaining that they do not want to put restrictions on auditionees. Gillian also added that they may have dog auditions.
Gillian and Michelle will direct Annie. Jen Burton will be the props and costume manager and Paula King will be the stage manager. There will be numerous volunteers required for backstage, hair, makeup, lighting and sound.
"Currently we are just reining in the ideas from stage design to casting the actors," explained Michelle indicating that the rest will follow.
Both Gillian and Michelle acknowledge the many elements of the production from stage design and acting to singing and choreography.
Annie performances will be held mid-summer in Blaine Lake. Although directors Gillian and Michelle will wait until after this production to comment on future plans, it is their ambition to make this an annual event.
Interested individuals from within Blaine Lake and the Valley area are welcome to email Gillian at [email protected] for an audition script and audition time.
