EP Candlelight Theatre Sets Youth Auditions for 'Sound of Music'

EVERGREEN PARK, IL — This Sunday, Feb. 2, the hills will be alive with the sound of children and young adults auditioning for the Evergreen Park Candlelight Theatre’s upcoming school edition of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical “Getting to Know … The Sound of Music.” Auditions start at 2 p.m. will be held at the Evergreen Park Senior Center, 9547 S. Homan Ave. Youth from the local area are welcome to audition.

The production staff is looking to fill two casts with young actors ages 8 to young adult. “Getting to Know … The Sound of Music” is the school edition of the hit Broadway musical that became a classic film in 1965. This edition, tailored for younger performers, features all the same treasure trove of songs, including "My Favorite Things," "Sixteen Going On Seventeen," "Do-Re-Mi" and "The Lonely Goatherd." The production runs about 75 minutes, including intermission. Shows will be staged on the small black box stage in the senior center performance hall while still creating a dazzling musical theater experience.

The inspirational story is based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Von Trapp, an ebullient postulant who serves as governess to the seven motherless children of the imperious Captain Von Trapp. Maria brings music and joy to the household, but as the forces of Nazism take hold in Austria, the Von Trapp family must make a moral decision.

Some audition tips/advice:

• It is recommended that those wishing to audition bring sheet music for the accompanist.
• You CAN sing something from the show, but you are also welcome to sing any song from musical theater that best showcases your voice.
• A cappella (no musical accompaniment) is discouraged and may lessen your chances for a principal role.
• Those who don’t want to sing solo will be put in a group.
• Be honest on your audition form if you want to be case in a specific part and not another role.
• Indicate any scheduling conflicts during the rehearsal period.

Callback auditions, if needed, will be announced. If cast, there will be a $50 administrative fee due by Sunday, Feb. 16. More information is included in the audition packet.

There will be six performances from May 1 to May 3 and May 8 to May 10, at the Evergreen Park Senior Center. Candlelight Theatre is a program of the Evergreen Park Recreation Department.