Open Auditions For Local Production Of 'Shrek The Musical, Jr.' To Begin In Union County, Jan. 12

by Chris Reardon

The CAU Community Players will launch their 2015 season with open auditions for this year’s performance of Dreamwork’s musical production, “Shrek the Musical, Jr.,” beginning January 12. Auditions are open to the public, in addition to members and staff of Community Access Unlimited.

Those auditioning should prepare a song from “Shrek the Musical Jr.” or a song in that style. All auditions will be held at 45 Cherry Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202. The schedule of auditions is:

Auditions

· Monday, January 12 – 6:30-8:00 p.m

· Wednesday, January 14 – 6:30-8:00 p.m.

· Saturday, January 17 – 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m

Since 1979 CAU has been providing support programs and services to people with disabilities statewide and youth served under the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to enable them to live independently at home or in the community, in areas including housing, vocational and life-skills training, education, advocacy and recreation and in-home services.

The CAU Community Players is a collaborative effort between CAU members and staff and the public to jointly stage an annual theatrical performance. This year’s performance will be the groups fifth since their first production of “Seussical Jr.” in June 2012.

The CAU Community Players are inviting new participants to join in this year’s production. Acting roles in the show are suited for actors of all ages and abilities, and feature iconic characters such as “Shrek,” “Princess Fiona” and “Puss in Boots.” The CAU Community Players also are seeking members for their behind-the-scenes crew to assist with back-stage work, scenery and costume construction and day-of-show assistance with ticket sales and fundraising efforts.

“The CAU Community Players and the productions we stage are wonderful opportunities for our members to interact and collaborate with the community of which they are a part,” said Luis Ayala, CAU’s community integration coordinator. “It also is an ideal chance for members of the community, including children and young adults, to interact with people with disabilities and to perform side by side with them, a wonderful learning experience.”

For more information about auditions or to learn about volunteering behind the scenes, visit www.caunj.org,under ‘Recreation’ or contact Luis Ayala at layala@caunj.org or 908.354.3040, ext. 216.