By Lexie V. Owen | Echo
Marion Civic Theatre will be holding auditions for its upcoming play "A Christmas Story"on Oct. 6-7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Based on the classic 1983 film, the play follows the Christmas tale of a young boy named Ralphie who would give his two front teeth to get a Red Rider BB gun. This beloved coming-of-age story depicts school, home life and Christmastime through the eyes of a child. Grown-up Ralphie still serves as the narrator of the story but unlike the film will appear in person in the play.
"There are some things that are a little bit different," said Marion Civic's secretary Peggy Briggs. "But it does follow the movie, and it is delightful."
The play will be co-directed by Connie Oyler and David Wright, both of whom have been involved with Marion Civic for many years. David Wright is affiliated with Taylor's film department, having performed in a student project. Marion Civic itself has enjoyed a long-term costuming partnership with Taylor theater. Taylor students are encouraged to try out for the show.
The script calls for up to four men, including grown-up Ralphie, Ralphie's father and Santa Claus. It also asks for women, including Ralphie's teacher and mother. There are speaking roles for up to eight children ranging from seven to nine years old. Child extras will also be needed for classroom scenes.
"Anyone can audition," said Marion Civic's marketing committee member Susan Treber. "We're always looking for new people to get involved. You don't have to prepare anything. Just show up at the theater."
"Comedic timing is important," Briggs said. "People who get a sense of the fun and the nostalgia of the show."
The Civic directors are attracted to the confident and fearless, those who get up onstage and give a performance their all.
The theater usually conducts "cattle call" auditions. All interested actors will audition for the show at the same time. Actors should be prepared to list previous theater experience and any dates they will unavailable for rehearsal.
"Auditions are simple," Treber said. "They'll just have you read a bit of the script and might have you come up and read with different people."
The performance dates are set for Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-14. For directions to the theater and more information, visit www.marion-civic-theatre.org
