In the recent weeks, Cardinal Newman’s drama club has revealed the 2023-2024 spring musical: “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” All members of the club cannot wait to begin the audition process. Sophomore Lena Turpen even said, “I am very excited for the audition process to begin! I can’t wait for the cast list and the ability to begin working on the play!” The club has many new additions this year who are ready to participate in whatever way that they can.
The drama club’s open call took place on Monday, October 16. The open call was a space for actors who are auditioning to develop their skills and be drawn and motivated to audition. At the open call, the actors were put into stations including vocal, movement, improvisation. At these stations, group leaders including Mr. Williams, Mr. Rosado, Ms. Rehner, and student choreographer Bear Brimlow observed the actors to see where they stood. During the open call, actors were advised to give it their best, because the drama club monitor and director Mr. Williams would be watching as a form of pre-auditions.
Auditions for Beauty and the Beast Jr. take place on Wednesday, November 1st. Anyone interested in auditioning is required to prepare 16 bars of a song and a 1 minute long monologue for the judges, Mr. Williams and Ms. Rehner. The audition material should fit the mood of the show and everyone should be prepared to present it at their respective time slots. Some tips for those considering auditions include being prepared, mistakes happen, so don’t worry about it, and stay calm and collected. President of the drama club, Junior Grace Favole says, “Drink tea/drink hot water with a lemon, cut out dairy for 48 hours, and sing your song on all vocal ranges to see which notes sound best or if trying another vocal range sounds better on that particular song.”
Callbacks for the musical will take place on Monday, November 6th. Mr. Williams and Ms. Rehner will put together a list of people who they feel they need to see more of. It will be mostly acting with sides from the show, so everyone is encouraged to try their best. Do not worry if you aren’t given a callback, it doesn’t mean that you will not receive a good part, just that Mr. Williams and Ms. Rehner feel that you have already shown them the full extent of your abilities. Some of the drama club meetings have been for the purpose of bonding within the club. After the officers and Mr. Williams give announcements, the members are free to mingle and occasionally entertain each other by participating in karaoke. Many members have taken advantage of these bonding meetings to get to know each other better and make friends.
All members of the drama club are filled with excitement at the opportunity to participate in a well known Disney musical. The drama club invites you to “Be Our Guest!” and join us April 5th and 6th for our production of “Beauty and the Beast Jr.”