OPEN AUDITIONS

[phoenixstrut]

A magnificent chandelier hangs overhead, casting the theatre in warm, golden light as it dominates the space...


Throughout Theatre, casting signs could be seen posted here and there to guide those auditioning to the stage along with their guests, should they have brought one or two- anything beyond that would be politely turned away. Once backstage, they would be greeted by a staff member, pen and clipboard in hand and a table nearby on which to collect resumes and headshots. Musical accompaniment is, of course, provided if needed, and the sheet music for the individual’s chosen pieces can be left with the pianist stationed just off to the left.

There are a few moments to mingle (or warm up, should they not be socially inclined) before the actual auditions are to begin and a rather expensive looking couple takes the stage to greet the pool of collected talent… and shoo those accompanying them to the middle rows of the auditorium.

“Ah, hello! Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you all for your interest. Let’s go ahead and dive right in, shall we?” He rubs his hands together as he waits for the check-in list, flipping through the first two pages, then addressing everyone one more.

“As noted in the original casting call, we will be doing things a little unconventionally this afternoon. For those of you familiar with this particular production, you know there are quite a few duets scattered throughout. With that in mind, once our initial cut has been made after your solo performances, we will be pairing you up for a second exercise, just to feel out the balances and chemistry within our potential cast.”

The woman steps up beside him and gives them all a bright smile as she clasps her hands together before her. “Do remember- keep your head up, truly feel your piece, and… please project. While we do have the technology these days to aid you, we’d love to hear you truly give it your all and this is a musical about an Opera.”

Seems like that might be a bit of an inside joke with the stagehands that have collected along the perimeter of the stage, particularly punctuated by the few staff members that have taken up post at the back of the auditorium and are now giving them all a thumbs ups and waves.

“Break a leg.”


((ooc:

Each character will have received an audition packet either through their agent (for those affiliated with Fama Talent Agency) or through their own pursuit a week or two in advance. Inside the packet there are call times, the requirements for each roll, a rough schedule of rehearsals for the next two months, and sheet music for a pre-selected song the casting director would like to hear, depending on which role the character shows interest in. They will, however, be asked to sing a song of their own choosing first.

While most of the lead roles have been predetermined oocly, feel free to have your character audition anyway! Phantom has a rather large cast, and we’re definitely looking to make this a fun event for everyone in the long run! If you have something specific in mind, hmu up on plurk (@dovefire) or Dove’s journal. Even if you choose not to have your character make the cut, there’s still the gala and opening night to look forward to! Keep in mind that this is a professional production and the characters will be ICly treated as such.

Feel free to ‘interact’ with each character’s performance (reactions are highly encouraged), though do know that any heckling that disturbs the audition will not be tolerated (unless it’s totally cool with the mun..then go wild.)

Everything else is fair game! Arrival, preparation… aftermath. Up to you!

CAST LIST
Erik (Phantom) - Augustine
Christine Daaé - Dove Eden
Viscount Raoul de Chagny - Camus
Meg Giry - Leanne

))

Comments

SOLO AUDITIONS

[phoenixstrut]

((ooc: The auditions will take place in rounds. The first will be a piece that the actor has chosen for themselves, preferably not from the production itself. Should they progress to the second round, the piece will be that of whichever role they are auditioning for. (For example, those auditioning for Christine might perform 'Think of Me' or 'Angel of Music'))

[thatched]

[he might be a bit tall for this, at seven foot and some, but the fact that he's dressed in a ball gown with hair piled high might suggest what role he's trying out for. He doesn't have an act as such, but he does have a radio to act as accompaniment. When he sings it is in an falsetto, acting like the trumped up opera star he wishes to embody, flickering a peacock fan and making eyes at the audience]

[immortalrose]

[An amused smirk settles upon Augustine's lips once he peeks in on this audition. Any man willing to perform in a ball gown with all the trimmings deserves respect. That's why he silently grabs a seat and watches with interest. He stands out in the crowd in his latest black and white ensemble looking very much like the lead of this opera.

Augustine has an ear for music. He can tell this man isn't classically trained but he seems to capture the aura of this character fairly well. Not willing to watch with a more critical eye, Augustine let's himself be entertained.]

[om_nom_namur]

GET IT THATCH!!!

[A loud, long whistle follows the enthusiastic outburst once Thatch is finished.]

[phoenixstrut]

[There's a quirk of her lips as he takes his place at center stage. Oddly enough, it's not something she's unused to, but for a first audition, she's got to give him credit: it's a bold, bold move.

When he starts to sing, her eyes widen a little before a soft laugh escapes under her breath. It's not at all what she had expected, but still an absolute delight.

When he's finished, she applauds with the rest of the crowd, still beaming.]

[singinghuntress]

[As hilarious as she finds his attire, Rip's still cheering for him! He's family so she's obviously going to support his attempts even if she's going to be auditioning a little later.]

Re: SOLO AUDITIONS

[amygreycastle]

[Amy is nervous as heck but she's going to do this, can't be a scaredy-cat after all, right? Even if her siblings aren't here, she did promise them once she wouldn't back down from anything, and this was definitely one of those times.

She's singing a song she'd heard going through the mall in Nova City once during her early explorations after her arrival.]

[quick_clean_pure]

[Graverobber's just chilling, a black cape folded over one arm while he waits for his turn to audition, listening to the other auditionees go first.

When Amy goes, he listens attentively, enjoying the song. When she finishes, he puts two fingers to his mouth so he can let out a loud, merry wolf whistle.]

Wooo!

[phoenixstrut]

[Dove can feel the nerves rolling off of her when she takes her place to audition, but smiles encouragingly behind her at the underlying determination. Get it, girl.

Once she’s started singing, the angel’s smile relaxes as she enjoys the song, and when Amy’s wrapped her piece, she applauds, waiting for her to make it offstage before she offers her congratulations.]

Hey! That was really great! [she tells her, voice hushed as the director greets the next audition.]

Dove Audition

[phoenixstrut]

Dove takes the stage with a soft smile to the director and his apparent wife, smoothing her dress and carefully adjusting the microphone as she takes one last look around the space and nods to the pianist that she's ready.

She relaxes a little as the music starts, then begins to sing, voice...mesmerizingly nothing like her pop performances. She's not holding back her divinity now- there's nothing stopping her here in Genessia, no High counsel, no masks, no fear of being discovered... no reason to hide her talents.

In fact, she's almost triumphant as she holds that last long note, seeing it through with a true angels power until the very end.

To those with a keen eye... there might even be a very real, subtle glow about her. But that could also just be the stage lights.

((ooc: Katharine McPhee is 1000% Dove's voice.))

[om_nom_namur]

[Oh, hey! It's that girl from the beach! Lord of the Sea she's got a beautiful voice. Namur claps enthusiastically and whistles.]

[singinghuntress]

[To everyone's surprise, Rip actually shows up to auditions. She's wearing her usual suit so it's.. hard to tell exactly what she's going to sing but, when it's her turn the piece she's chosen is one she's very familiar with.

Now it's just seeing how well received it is for this audition considering Rip's more doing this for the hell of it and the fact that she does like opera.]

[om_nom_namur]

[Rip also gets a long, shrill whistle from the audience.]

Do 'nother! No, wait.

[Namur pegs whoever's closest to him with a gentle fist.]

What's that word I'm lookin' for?

Oh, right!

ENCORE!!!

[And he whistles again. Because what is subtlety?]

[phoenixstrut]

[Well, that’s… entirely unexpected. Though Dove had noticed her in the group and was almost certain that Rip was exactly who she suspected her to be, she definitely hadn’t expected her to audition. She listens respectfully, chiding herself silently for being as surprised as she is about the woman’s talent, but is also curious and… mildly irritated about the huntress’ blasé attitude toward the situation and admittedly a little stressed about the idea of working with her for such a long period should they both get a role.

She does, despite her hesitations, applaud along with the rest of the group- Rip had done a fantastic job with her piece- but turns to look out into the crowd as Namur cheers her on… then cringes harshly when the vampire literally drops the mic.

….Really?!]

[quick_clean_pure]

[Graverobber is partially here for shits and giggles. He doesn't actually think he's gonna get the role of Erik, since that presumably would go to someone without his let's-just-say-colorful hairdo. Still, he'd be missing out if he didn't at least check out the local goth rock musical, yanno?

So he's there, singing out with his pretty-damned-good bass voice and maybe wearing a black cape he bought on a whim.

The song he sings is an old-timey ballad that was maybe written/performed by the same actor as himself, giving it as much gusto as he can. He's clearly enjoying himself, not particularly worried about much else.]

[song_princess]

[For whatever reason, Leanne arrived at the auditions. She guesses there is no harm in it as there was no way she would be picked. Wearing just a plain outfit, she goes to sing. After her song, she goes to start leaving the stage. Sorry folks, the stage life is not for her. Plus, she knows that she won't be picked.]

[idoliceking]

Camus takes the stage when he's called very calmly, as someone used to this would do. Normally though, he just takes the part he's given, he's not normally told to audition and see what happens. But, from what he's read, this part was him to a T.

When he does the audition, he performs Bring Him Home from another semi-famous musical, and does it pretty damn good. He's been doing this singing thing for a while, and is a professional back home... When he's finished, he bows and thanks those listening, before going to sit and continue reading his book... a copy of Phantom of the Opera.

[ooc: This is Camus' actual voice here. Gameplay video, but it's a decent example.]

SOS d'un terrien en détresse - Augustine G. Vlad Tepes

[immortalrose]

[When Augustine finally takes to the stage, all is silent. He's dressed quite handsome in this white and black brocade ensemble that features a mandarin color and silver accents. His love for the baroque period is very much alive and well with his current handmade suit. It might be a little dressy for the audition but it's perfect for an opera singer like him, especially for the man aiming for the role of the Phantom.

The notes upon the piano are soft and light but with a hint of melancholy. This is not a cheerful song. Once the atmosphere and delicately set by the pianist, Augustine softly whispers the beginning of this old classic by none other than Daniel Balavoine.]

Pourquoi je vis, pourquoi, je meurs?

[Yes, he's singing in French. He's not a French native but he certainly sounds like one.]

Pourquoi je ris, pourquoi je pleure?
Voici le S.O.S
D'un terrien en détresse
J'ai jamais eu les pieds sur terre
J'aimerais mieux être un oiseau
J'suis mal dans ma peau

[Unlike some others, Augustine has range. He has a wide vocal range encompassing five octaves, four notes and one semitone. Hell, the dhampir can reach the deep end of baritone and all the way up to soprano and he's illustrating all that in this song.

He really wants this damn role in this opera. That much is certain. Augustine might be a threat here for anyone else gunning for Erik. Heck, he probably would make a decent "Raoul" if he misses out on the main role but who knows?

Let the judges decide.]

AFTER EVERYONE ELSE

[motherbrain]

Before

[Earlier that week, Mother Brain noticed a flyer attached to the bottom of King Hippo's shoe. She plucked it off and read it, noting that it was an audition for a musical performance. Where did he get this? Either someone had left it in the street or it was dropped by someone he punched.]

[At first she dismissed it as nonsense, but it didn't take too long for an evil scheme to form in that massive brain of hers.]

Polish my jar, boys! I have to look my best if I'm going to be the star of this opera! Ohhhhhh ho ho ho ho ho!

Now

[The doors to the hall burst open, pushed apart my a gray-green fat man in shorts with boxing gloves, and a one-eyed purple blobby creature clutching an eggplant-tipped staff. Behind them, a massive jar containing a horrible brain with an even more horrible face, rolls forward on tank treads. Those big scarlet lips are pulled down in a frown.]

Don't cast those roles yet! I, the beautiful and powerful Mother Brain, will be taking the lead!

THIRD ROUND - Duets

[phoenixstrut]

((ooc: Congrats! Your character has made it to the third round of cuts. It's been a looong day, but well done!

Feel free to practice with your partner before the director decides it's time to perform... then break another leg!))

Dove | Open to all!

[phoenixstrut]

Arrival/Pre-audition
Around mid-morning, documents tucked securely under her arm and outfit a little more put together than usual for a casual walk, Dove makes her way from her apartment to the street, focus clearly not on those around her. This audition is huge for her, not because of the work itself, but because of the freedom she now has to even try. It would never be allowed back home, even if she had still been just a simple guardian angel. To showcase an Angelic voice on earth was risky, and her modeling career had already pushed a few boundaries she never should have toyed with… To think of the Archangel participating in anything like a broadway level production was dangerous for them all, and would likely send her High Council into full blown hysterics.

Not that she could blame them. The separation between humans and angels had existed well before her time and (with any luck) would continue far after her time, keeping everyone safe in the long run.

Here though, it didn’t matter. Here she didn’t have to be in such control, didn’t have the responsibility to protect her people and the souls of those on earth. Here, she wouldn't be held to seemingly impossible political standards she couldn't understand.. Here she was free to find her own path and explore every option....even if her divinity was still trying to corner her here and there.

Here she would be ignoring it and would be auditioning for one of her favorite musicals.

Determined and spirits high, she would take only one detour on her way to the theatre, stopping by a nearby cafe to pick up one of her favorite hot teas and share a bright smile with the familiar barista behind the counter.

It was going to be a good day.

Afterward

The rush of the auditions may be over, but Dove is glowing.

No. She's really glowing, not bothering to hold back her excitement.

Afterward

[idoliceking]

Camus had returned to reading his book between being called for things, and was working on finishing the chapter he was on before returning to his apartment.

As he stood and collected his things, he saw Dove out of the corner of his eye, and what he saw made him turn and stare.

Was she... glowing?

No, it had to be a trick of the lights.

Pre-audition

[despisesthegods]

Styxx had been having a mostly relaxing day staying to himself as he usually seemed to, and had walked into the cafe not too long before Dove had to order a tea of his own. It was no wine of course, but while in the Sahara, he'd learned what a necessity tea really was during such hot times and hadn't gotten used to it. When Dove entered he'd only just managed to get hold of his cup of tea though he smiled as he saw her. She looked as if she was working hard, so he'd let her order before cutting in to pay for her tea for her instead.

"This one's on me, Dove."

[drownindarkness]

[Leo had been quietly observing the auditions from afar, his curiosity having brought him into the theatre in the first place. He had no interest in auditioning himself, he didn't have the skill set required for an operatic performance, but listening to the other auditions was quite pleasant. The range of talent this place had was impressive, to say the least.

After the auditions were through, Leo would gravitate towards the now currently unoccupied piano, taking a moment to admire it. He took a seat in front of it and then began to play with an air of confidence about him, playing the song without need of any sheet music. He hadn't had a chance to play in quite some time, and it's not like he was disturbing any performances. The hall was pretty quiet before he went up there. And he's a prince he does what he wants.

Come pester the man who just hijacked the piano?]

[solar_flare]

[There's a pretty good reason why Yang didn't sign up for auditions: she has no acting or singing talent. She can dance, sure, but ballet? Nope. She thought about dropping by to see if Weiss went for it since this seemed like her kind of thing, but either her teammate didn't show or Yang just missed her.]

[Checking the time, she decides she'll just head home. As she starts to go, however, the sound of a piano being played catches her attention. So there are still some people around after all. The song's pretty, too, and to catch Yang's attention...a lover of techno and rock...that's saying something.]

[She opens the door and slips inside, content to just lean against the wall and fold her arms and listen. Whoever that guy is, he doesn't seem like he's causing any trouble, and it's not like the doors were locked so he's probably not trespassing after hours.]

[Besides, he's cute, and Yang doesn't mind passing some time watching a good-looking dude plunk out a song on the piano. It's harmless.]

[Eventually he'll finish his tune, and Yang will give a cheeky little round of applause with her gloved hands. If it weren't summer, he might not see that her right arm is fashioned out of metal. But it's hot out, so she's taken to wearing tank tops to beat the heat, and the glove only goes up a few inches past her wrist.]

Pretty good! Don't mind me, play another one if you want.