Hudson, NC – The Town of Hudson Fall Dinner Theatre Production of the Appalachian Ballad Folk Show, Dark of the Moon, will hold auditions at the HUB Station and Hudson Performing Arts Center, in the main auditorium, 145 Cedar Valley Road, Hudson on Monday and Tuesday, 21st and 22nd at 7 PM.
Dark of the Moon is based on the famous Scottish ballad, “Barbara Allen,” and is rooted in Americana Mountain folklore. It recounts the story of John, a strange “witch boy” who, upon first beholding the beautiful human, Barbara Allen, immediately falls in love with her. After making a plea to the witch council, he is given human form to woo and marry her on the condition that she remains true to him. Prejudice, misconceptions, ignorance, misguided zeal, lack of tolerance, good intentions and superstition all brew and simmer to contribute to the challenge of acceptance of others, demonstrated in a very poignant ending.
There are specific roles for 13 men and 12 women, in addition to townsfolk and a church choir, ranging in age from 15 to 102. For in depth detail about character descriptions and ages, please see the character description attachment.
None of the roles have been precast and casting is wide open for all ages and ethnicities.
There will be a lot of music in the show, but it is not a musical. So there is a need for a lot of strong singers, with a choral background, but auditions are also open to those who do not sing. There will be a bluegrass/acoustic folk band in the show.
This show was at one time the most produced play in America, and was a staple in many high schools and community theatres.
If you have a piece of folk music or a hymn you would like to sing, you may do so a cappella, or bring your sheet music and an accompanist will be provided.
Also wear comfortable, loose clothing and closed toe shoes to be prepared for some movement. The main portion of auditions will consist of improvisation and reading from the script.
If you would like to check out a script, please call Director Keith Smith at Hudson Town Hall, (828) 728-8272. If anyone would like to present a memorized one minute monologue of a mountain folklore variety, that would be an added bonus.
Everyone must be available for the show dates of Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 16th, 17th, 18th, and a matinee on Sunday, October 19th, and the following week, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th.
