The Quiltmaker's Gift
Book by Alan J. Prewitt, Music by Craig Bohmler, Lyrics by Steven Mark Kohn
Director: Allen Schmeltz
Musical Direction: Susan Mason & Connie Mockenhaupt
Choreographer: Connie Mockenhaupt
General audition info...
Call for appointment! (916) 353-1001
The audition will consist of cold readings from the script and a short vocal selection and perhaps some movement for the chorus members. Note: You do not have to be an experienced dancer. See character descriptions.
Bring a resume & headshot or photo if you have them. Prepare one short vocal selection and with a CD accompaniment. No a cappella if possible!
Rehearsals begin...
Right away on Sunday through Thursday evenings. There will be no rehearsals Thanksgiving week except perhaps the first part of the week if actors are available. Rehearsal conflicts can usually be accommodated except for the last couple weeks of rehearsals.
The show runs...
December 11 through December 29 on Saturday and Sunday at 1:00pm. We will also may have performances in the evenings (7:00pm) week of December 20 - 24 and 27-29 at 1:00pm. In addition we have school shows booked in the mornings on December 10, 13, & 15. It may be possible to double cast some parts so even if you have performance conflicts, call for an audition if you are interested.
Synopsis...
A mysterious woman lives in the misty mountains, making beautiful quilts for the poor. Meanwhile, the greedy king is desperate to find happiness, assuming it will come from one of the many presents he has demanded from his subjects. When the old woman refuses to give the king a quilt, she starts him on a journey of self-discovery that takes them both on a whimsical adventure. At times mystical, hilarious, gently provocative and touching, this intimate musical has delighted parents and children alike. It is filled with beautiful music and colorful characters. This is a charming play for the holiday season.
Character types needed...
THE CHILD: Precast
THE OLD MAN: Should look in 50's or older however will consider younger adults depending on other casting. The Old Man is warm and gentle and speaks as if everything in life is a magical gift. There is no doubt that there is something special about him.
THE QUILTMAKER: Female that appears to be in 60's but will consider much younger adult or older teen. The Quiltmaker has an air of mystery about her. She has a magical connection to the forces of nature. The actor should be a very good singer. The range is soprano.
THE KING: The King is part of the chorus in the opening and closing numbers but plays the King throughout the rest of the play. He is lonely and sad, greedy and self-centered. He is in search of the one thing in the world that will make him happy. Will consider older teens to 40's.
THE CHORUS MEMBERS: A Tenor, Alto (precast), Soprano and Bass/Baritone. They play a very important part in the musical and do numerous roles. All ages from teens to adults will be considered for these roles. Various physical types, thin, tall, large, etc. can add to the effect of these characters.
