Broadway’s ‘Spider-Man’ casting a wide net (or is it a web?)
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If you’ve ever dreamed of climbing into the big time — or just crawling up a wall — this could be your chance.
Below is the just announced open-call audition information for ‘Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark,’ the $40-million production that will bring the friendly neighborhood webhead swinging on stage in his own Broadway production in early 2010. There’s big-name talent behind it (Bono and the Edge of U2 are crafting the music, Tony winner Julie Taymor is directing), but there may be some unknowns on the stage, according to the announcement. But, then again, some of this might just be part of the build-the-buzz marketing plan for the pricey venture; Evan Rachel Wood has reportedly locked in the Mary Jane Watson role, so perhaps you ladies shouldn’t dye your hair red in hopes of seeing your name up on the marquee of the show’s home venue, the Hilton Theater.
So what’s up with that female villian description below? Is it possible the villain will be the Black Widow, the curvy Russian spy from Marvel Comics who is also a likely character in the ‘Iron Man’ film franchise? (In Hollywood, the latest rumor is that Scarlett Johansson will be wearing the Widow’s skin-tight black fighting togs.) Or maybe this villian reference is to Elektra? Seems unlikely; this isn’t a Daredevil musical. Perhaps a more exotic incarnation of the Black Cat? What do you think?
SPIDER-MAN Turn Off The Dark, featuring direction by Julie Taymor (Across The Universe, Frida, The Lion King on Broadway) with music and lyrics by 22-time Grammy® Award-winners Bono and The Edge (from U2) will be holding open casting calls at major cities across the country starting next week. SPIDER-MAN is seeking principals and understudies for the roles of ‘Peter Parker,’ ‘Mary Jane,’ and ‘Female Lead Villian.’ The production is looking for performers with dynamic rock/pop voices including those with experience in bands and as solo performers. Regardless of experience, anyone who thinks they might be qualified is encouraged to audition. Open casting calls are being organized by Telsey + Company (Rent, Across The Universe, Sex & The City, Wicked) and will be held in the following cities: ORLANDO, FL (Thursday, April 9; 10 AM – 5PM) Orlando Marriott World Center, 8701 World Center Drive, Orlando, FL 32821 NEW YORK, NY (Monday, April 13; 10 AM – 5PM) The Knitting Factory, 74 Leonard Street, New York, NY 10013 LOS ANGELES, CA (Saturday, April 18; 10 AM – 5PM) Hollywood United Methodist Church, 6817 Franklin Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 SEATTLE, WA (Monday, April 20; 10 AM – 5PM) LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED CHICAGO, IL (Thursday, May 7; 10 AM – 5 PM) LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED AUSTIN, TX (Wednesday, May 27; 10 AM – 5 PM) LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED The production is looking for candidates to fill the following roles (both principals and understudies): PETER PARKER – Male. 16-20’s. Must have a great rock tenor voice. Can be nerdy with understated sex appeal and a good sense of humor. MARY JANE – Female. 16-20’s. Beautiful girl next door. Strong pop/rock singing voice required. LEAD FEMALE VILLAIN – Female. 25‐35 years old. All ethnicities encouraged. Must have an amazing rock voice. Think Sinead O’Connor with a Middle Eastern /Bulgarian/Greek twist. Foreign and/or world music types are great. Foreign accents are great. WHAT TO BRING: All interested people should bring a snapshot or photo of themselves and a brief pop/rock or rock song to sing. Please note that no accompanist or audio equipment will be provided.
— Geoff Boucher
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