CASTING NOTICE – Actors who TAP DANCE

Title of Show: Hard Times (Musical in Development)

Agreement: AEA NYC Showcase Code (Approval Pending)

Producer: the cell theatre co.

Book: Larry Kirwan

Music & Lyrics: Stephen Foster & Larry Kirwan

Director: Kira Simring

Casting Director: Jason Najjoum

Tentative Schedule:

Rehearsals for developmental production: August 20 – September 12, 2012 (approx 25 hrs/week)

Performances: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, September 13 – 29, 2012, plus Wednesday, September 19 @ 3pm, Monday, September 24 @ 8pm in association with the 1st Irish Festival.

Synopsis:

Written by the author/playwright/lead singer of Black 47 Larry Kirwan, the story weaves together Stephen Foster’s journey with his sexuality and his relationship with his wife, and the fusion of Irish step dancing and African American shuffle into American tap dancing, against the backdrop of New York’s infamous Five Points on a night of racially charged Civil War draft riots in 1863. It will feature the re-imagined songs of the enigmatic “father of American music” Stephen Foster, with additional material by Kirwan.

Auditions:

Auditions and callbacks will be held in July 2012. Please submit headshots and resumes for consideration to hardtimescasting@gmail.com.

SEEKING:

[OWEN DUIGNAN]

20-29, White male. An Irish immigrant and entertainer at Nelly’s saloon. Had a one-nighter with Foster that he can't forget and is torn about his sexuality. Innately dynamic, good-looking, and energetic. Life in America and the discrimination against Irishmen has twisted his personality, leaving him brooding, moody, and a bit dangerous. Sings once in blackface, as is typical of Irish performers of the era. Tap dancing experience required. Bari-tenor.

[THOMAS JEFFERSON]

20-29, Black male. A free man, he passionately believes that black people should have equal rights to white people. He’s Nelly’s protector, and is also an entertainer at her saloon. A foil to Owen, he is resilient despite his oppression, and represents the future of America post-Civil War. Tap dancing experience required. Bari-tenor.