“White Christmas” Information PackageMay 17 – 7:30 p.m. @ Christ Church (1700 Mazo Crescent)
Clarkson Music Theatre presents Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”. Get ready for the holiday season with this timeless story- updated with a few plot twists, some new characters, lots of dance, comedy, energy, and a classic story re-visited!
Director Rob Gorican
Choreographer Bob Riddell*
Music Director Jenny Peace
Producers Rita Ferguson, Christine McMahon, Susan Wray Toogood
Stage Manager John Dalgleish
*The participation of this artist is arranged by permission of Canadian Actors' Equity Association, under the provisions of the Dance Opera Theatre Policy (DOT)
At Meadowvale Theatre, 6315 Montevideo Road, Mississauga, ON L5N 4G7
905-615-4720 / for tickets orders: www.encoretix.org
Nov.17, 18, 23, 24, 25 - 2016 @ 8 p.m. / Nov.19, 25, 26/ 2017@ 2 p.m.
Adults $30 / Seniors and Students $28
Synopsis of “White Christmas”
“White Christmas” is a new staging of the classic story of Irving Berlin’s classic White Christmas. Bob Wallace and Phil Davis open the story on the Western Front 1944, Christmas Eve. Their beloved General Waverly must retire due to an injury. We jump to 1954 where Bob and Phil are continuing their show biz success on the Ed Sullivan Show. Phil, the ladies’ man, is determined to find Bob a girl, and they set out to see a new act: the Haynes sisters – where Phil falls for Judy and Bob is equally smitten by her sister Betty. Phil tricks Bob to follow the girls to Vermont where they meet Waverly who is pursuing a new career as an innkeeper of a ski chalet in “snowy” Vermont. However, Waverly seems destined to fail, with mounting bills, and a lack of both customers and snow. The four entertainers set out to save the inn and they bring the whole song and dance production (complete with chorus) to the inn to put on a “Wallace and Davis” show. But the brief romance Betty and Bob share is marred when Martha snoops and incorrectly announces that Bob is out to make a million off the general. Betty leaves the production, pursued by Bob. All is well in the end when misunderstandings are settled, the General is reminded of the love of his men, and snow at last falls upon the inn (and maybe in the audience!) , solving all the general’s financial problems. There’s lots of great comic, musical and dance moments for principals, dancers and chorus. Other characters include: Martha (a retired showgirl and Waverly’s housekeeper), granddaughter Susan, two hilarious show girls Rita and Rhonda, the laconic slow-as-molasses handy-man Ezekie l, the hysterical dance captain Mike and more. If you like fabulous production values, dance numbers featuring tap, lots of opportunities for ensemble, great comedy, a bit of schmaltz, and a feel good ending, this one’s for you! Featuring the incredible music of Irving Berlin, including: Blue Skies, We’ll Follow the Old Man, Sisters, I Love a Piano, and of course the title song.
Rehearsal Details and Other Dates:
How to Audition - Book your audition by emailing [email protected] after April 1st, 2017
Audition Requirements-Auditions are by appointment May 29 and May 31–5 minute time slots booked from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.at Christ Church. Candidates should prepare one verse and one chorus–your choice, but preferably any classic music theatre song(in the style of Berlin, Lerner and Loew, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Porter).Whatever you choose, please select a song appropriate for the role you are interested in. Bring accompanist’s music suitably bound in a binder. Also prepare a one minute memorized comedic monologue (any source) which again highlights the character that most interests you. All Candidates will be required to participate in a 30 minute movement workshop from 8:15 p.m. to 8:45p.m. on the evening of their audition. Please come dressed appropriately. Auditions will be booked between 7 p.m. to 8:10 and 8:50 p.m. to 10:30.
The Call Back June 3 - Successful candidates will be invited on Thursday June 1 by email to attend the Call Back on June 3 – 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.@ Christ Church. Finalists will sing a selection for your character from “White Christmas” (required titles will be listed on the website and also sent to the candidates with their Call Back invitation). Candidates will also perform cold readings with various partners. Please note that candidates may be cast in a role without a call back. Successful candidates will be invited to accept their roles on or about June 4-5. Those trying out for Phil or Judy should attend the dance call June 3rd at 10 am if they are called back.
The Dance Corps: 12 females / 6 males. Must be equally strong in ballroom, jazz and tap. Must sing very well.
Dance Call June 3 - We hope to cast 12 females and 6 males for our dance core. A separate dance call will be held on Saturday June 3rd from 10 am to 1 p.m. Contact [email protected] to book your place in the dance call. Prospective Dancers will be taught a song to perform for the team before you dance. Applicants will learn a dance number in the style of “White Christmas” and applicants will perform this number by the end of the dance call. If you wish to be considered for a principal role, you should book an audition as well as attend the dance call. Phil / Judy hopefuls should attend the dance call June 3rd at 10 am as well.
The Ensemble - Clarkson members in good standing (for the 2016-2017 season)should contact Christine McMahon ([email protected] ) by May 20th in order to hold their place in the ensemble. Non Clarkson members will be required to audition for a place in the ensemble. There are many featured roles in “White Christmas”. Ensemble who would like to be considered for any of the featured roles in “White Christmas” should come out to audition. There may be a group of seasonal singers who should be able to move well, but not necessarily dance. Notwithstanding, participants must be able to negotiate the stairs at Meadowvale and be able to move well.
Please note:
Cast of “White Christmas”
Ralph Sheldrake – mid to late 30’s. Army buddy of Bob and Phil’s now a major television executive. Fast talking professional. Baritone.
Ezekiel Foster – mid 40’s to late 50’s – The ultimate taciturn New Englander who helps out at the inn and takes life at a very slow pace.
Mike – mid 20’s to late 30’s – Bob and Phil’s stage manager. Has a tendency to be over-dramatic and completely hysterical, but will get things done. Never seen without his whistle and clipboard, which he uses to attempt to keep order.
Other roles from Ensemble:
Tessie (Bob and Phil’s assistant) Jimmy – owner of Jimmy’s Back Room
Cigarette girl Snoring Man
Mrs. Snoring Man Train Conductor
Dance Captain Seamstress
Assistant Seamstress Ed Sullivan Announcer
Regency Room Announcer (off stage) Sheldrake’s secretary (off stage)
Jimmy’s back room club-goers Train passengers / inn guests
Chorus kids Patrons of the Regency Room
The Ideal Cast will be forty strong, with vocal ranges evenly split SATB. Dance ability: good movers to strong dancers. Musical Numbers are listed below:
ACT ONE
ACT TWO
Clarkson Music Theatre presents Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas”. Get ready for the holiday season with this timeless story- updated with a few plot twists, some new characters, lots of dance, comedy, energy, and a classic story re-visited!
Director Rob Gorican
Choreographer Bob Riddell*
Music Director Jenny Peace
Producers Rita Ferguson, Christine McMahon, Susan Wray Toogood
Stage Manager John Dalgleish
*The participation of this artist is arranged by permission of Canadian Actors' Equity Association, under the provisions of the Dance Opera Theatre Policy (DOT)
At Meadowvale Theatre, 6315 Montevideo Road, Mississauga, ON L5N 4G7
905-615-4720 / for tickets orders: www.encoretix.org
Nov.17, 18, 23, 24, 25 - 2016 @ 8 p.m. / Nov.19, 25, 26/ 2017@ 2 p.m.
Adults $30 / Seniors and Students $28
Synopsis of “White Christmas”
“White Christmas” is a new staging of the classic story of Irving Berlin’s classic White Christmas. Bob Wallace and Phil Davis open the story on the Western Front 1944, Christmas Eve. Their beloved General Waverly must retire due to an injury. We jump to 1954 where Bob and Phil are continuing their show biz success on the Ed Sullivan Show. Phil, the ladies’ man, is determined to find Bob a girl, and they set out to see a new act: the Haynes sisters – where Phil falls for Judy and Bob is equally smitten by her sister Betty. Phil tricks Bob to follow the girls to Vermont where they meet Waverly who is pursuing a new career as an innkeeper of a ski chalet in “snowy” Vermont. However, Waverly seems destined to fail, with mounting bills, and a lack of both customers and snow. The four entertainers set out to save the inn and they bring the whole song and dance production (complete with chorus) to the inn to put on a “Wallace and Davis” show. But the brief romance Betty and Bob share is marred when Martha snoops and incorrectly announces that Bob is out to make a million off the general. Betty leaves the production, pursued by Bob. All is well in the end when misunderstandings are settled, the General is reminded of the love of his men, and snow at last falls upon the inn (and maybe in the audience!) , solving all the general’s financial problems. There’s lots of great comic, musical and dance moments for principals, dancers and chorus. Other characters include: Martha (a retired showgirl and Waverly’s housekeeper), granddaughter Susan, two hilarious show girls Rita and Rhonda, the laconic slow-as-molasses handy-man Ezekie l, the hysterical dance captain Mike and more. If you like fabulous production values, dance numbers featuring tap, lots of opportunities for ensemble, great comedy, a bit of schmaltz, and a feel good ending, this one’s for you! Featuring the incredible music of Irving Berlin, including: Blue Skies, We’ll Follow the Old Man, Sisters, I Love a Piano, and of course the title song.
Rehearsal Details and Other Dates:
- Rehearsal /Audition Venue: Christ Church, 1700 Mazo Crescent (Clarkson Road and Truscott, Mississauga)
- Rehearsals: Monday and Wednesday evenings 7:30 – 10:30 / Saturday from 10 am to about 4:30 p.m. Rehearsals begin August 21, 2017 and run as scheduled till we open Nov.17. (no rehearsal Labour Day [Sept.4] or Thanksgiving Day [October 9])
- Attendance policy– Strictly enforced. Conflicts must be declared at time of Audition.
- Additional dates: Costume Parade – Sunday October 29 on site at the costume warehouse / Principals with Orchestra Rehearsal - Oct 29 evening / Full Cast and Orchestra rehearsals – Sunday Nov.5 / Move-In to Theatre - Sunday Nov.12 (8 am to 11 p.m.) / Dark Week Nov.13 – 16(6 p.m. to 11 p.m.) – ALL CAST MUST ATTEND RELEVANT DATES AS LISTED.
- Presented At Meadowvale Theatre: Nov.17, 18, 23, 24, 25@ 8 p.m. /Nov.19, 25, 26 @ 2 p.m.
How to Audition - Book your audition by emailing [email protected] after April 1st, 2017
Audition Requirements-Auditions are by appointment May 29 and May 31–5 minute time slots booked from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.at Christ Church. Candidates should prepare one verse and one chorus–your choice, but preferably any classic music theatre song(in the style of Berlin, Lerner and Loew, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Porter).Whatever you choose, please select a song appropriate for the role you are interested in. Bring accompanist’s music suitably bound in a binder. Also prepare a one minute memorized comedic monologue (any source) which again highlights the character that most interests you. All Candidates will be required to participate in a 30 minute movement workshop from 8:15 p.m. to 8:45p.m. on the evening of their audition. Please come dressed appropriately. Auditions will be booked between 7 p.m. to 8:10 and 8:50 p.m. to 10:30.
The Call Back June 3 - Successful candidates will be invited on Thursday June 1 by email to attend the Call Back on June 3 – 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.@ Christ Church. Finalists will sing a selection for your character from “White Christmas” (required titles will be listed on the website and also sent to the candidates with their Call Back invitation). Candidates will also perform cold readings with various partners. Please note that candidates may be cast in a role without a call back. Successful candidates will be invited to accept their roles on or about June 4-5. Those trying out for Phil or Judy should attend the dance call June 3rd at 10 am if they are called back.
The Dance Corps: 12 females / 6 males. Must be equally strong in ballroom, jazz and tap. Must sing very well.
Dance Call June 3 - We hope to cast 12 females and 6 males for our dance core. A separate dance call will be held on Saturday June 3rd from 10 am to 1 p.m. Contact [email protected] to book your place in the dance call. Prospective Dancers will be taught a song to perform for the team before you dance. Applicants will learn a dance number in the style of “White Christmas” and applicants will perform this number by the end of the dance call. If you wish to be considered for a principal role, you should book an audition as well as attend the dance call. Phil / Judy hopefuls should attend the dance call June 3rd at 10 am as well.
The Ensemble - Clarkson members in good standing (for the 2016-2017 season)should contact Christine McMahon ([email protected] ) by May 20th in order to hold their place in the ensemble. Non Clarkson members will be required to audition for a place in the ensemble. There are many featured roles in “White Christmas”. Ensemble who would like to be considered for any of the featured roles in “White Christmas” should come out to audition. There may be a group of seasonal singers who should be able to move well, but not necessarily dance. Notwithstanding, participants must be able to negotiate the stairs at Meadowvale and be able to move well.
Please note:
- All cast members must be able to move well.
- Attendance at rehearsals is imperative. You will be required to declare your conflicts for the rehearsal schedule at the time of audition. You may miss no more than three rehearsals.
- Ensemble members who wish to be given first consideration for non-principal roles should audition.
- It costs $1,800 to put each cast member on stage, not including the number of volunteer hours donated by our support crew. Without ticket sales and a sizeable infusion from fund-raising, productions cannot break even. Thus, we feel it is reasonable to require all cast members to volunteer ten hours toward the production (e.g.: set construction and painting, fund-raising, other).
- Clarkson Performing Membership Fees $40 Single Membership / $50 Family Membership
- There is also a $10 fee to help defray the cost of printed materials.
Cast of “White Christmas”
- Bob Wallace – late 20 –mid 30’s. A Major singing star, Bob is the guiding force behind the song and dance team of Wallace and Davis. He wears his fame easily and is a born leader, but has some trouble with social and romantic interactions. Despite his occupational gruffness, he is a deeply kind and principled man who is searching for his true love. A Superb singer, crooning style, moves very well. Baritone.
- Phil Davis – late 20-s – mid 30’s. the fun-loving, go-getting song and dance partner of the team of Wallace and Davis. An irrepressible clown, operator and incorrigible ladies’ man who is determined to see his friend happy, even if it requires scheming and outright deception. He has a boyish charm and sex appeal. Strong jazz and tap dancing needed. Song and dance comic performer. Bari-Tenor.
- Betty Haynes – mid to late 20’s. The sensible responsible half of the upcoming song and dance team the Haynes sisters, destined to be a star in her own right, she is nonetheless hesitant to take the spotlight for herself. A woman of decent, upstanding principles, she is devoted to her younger sister. Like Bob, she hides her yearning for true love under a protective shell. Female singer of quiet beauty and charm, rich chest mix sound. Soprano extension. Must move well.
- Judy Haynes – early 20’s. The youngest, more ambitious, slightly scheming Haynes sister. While wholesome and adorable, she is sexy and flirty – a winning charmer who no man can resist. Strong jazz and tap dancing needed. Major song and dance performer. Chest mix.
- General Waverly – late 50’s to mid 60’s – A Retired U.S. Army General, adjusting to returning to civilian life in post-World War II America. Once a powerful leader, he now struggles to run an inn in Vermont. He remains a man of great principle and dignity. Beneath his curmudgeonly military exterior lies a warm, compassionate man in need of family and love. With the exception of one line, a non-singing role.
- Martha Watson – late 40’s to mid 60’s. Once a Broadway star, now the general’s housekeeper at the inn, Martha has a very dry wit, wisecracking sense of humour. Big hearted but completely unsentimental, she runs the General’s life in spite of his protests. She is an irrepressible meddler, but always for what she believes to be the other guy’s best interests. A winning appealing character comedienne with a clarion belt voice.
- Susan Waverly – 9 – 12 years old. The general’s granddaughter. Susan is a loveable and outgoing real kid. She is very smart, wise beyond her years, and cares deeply about her grandfather. Once bitten hard by the showbiz bug, she demonstrates everything that is winning in the ultimate child performer. Must have an excellent belt voice, be able to move well.
- Rita and Rhoda – mid 20’s to early 30’s – Bob and Phil’s two star chorus girls, they are brash, sexy, fun, but not the smartest.
Ralph Sheldrake – mid to late 30’s. Army buddy of Bob and Phil’s now a major television executive. Fast talking professional. Baritone.
Ezekiel Foster – mid 40’s to late 50’s – The ultimate taciturn New Englander who helps out at the inn and takes life at a very slow pace.
Mike – mid 20’s to late 30’s – Bob and Phil’s stage manager. Has a tendency to be over-dramatic and completely hysterical, but will get things done. Never seen without his whistle and clipboard, which he uses to attempt to keep order.
Other roles from Ensemble:
Tessie (Bob and Phil’s assistant) Jimmy – owner of Jimmy’s Back Room
Cigarette girl Snoring Man
Mrs. Snoring Man Train Conductor
Dance Captain Seamstress
Assistant Seamstress Ed Sullivan Announcer
Regency Room Announcer (off stage) Sheldrake’s secretary (off stage)
Jimmy’s back room club-goers Train passengers / inn guests
Chorus kids Patrons of the Regency Room
The Ideal Cast will be forty strong, with vocal ranges evenly split SATB. Dance ability: good movers to strong dancers. Musical Numbers are listed below:
ACT ONE
- Happy Holiday –Bob, Phil, Sheldrake
- White Christmas – Bob, Phil, Sheldrake, GI’s
- Happy Holiday / let Yourself Go – Bob, Phil, Chorus
- Love and the Weather- Bob, Betty
- Sisters – Betty, Judy
- The Best Things Happen While you’re Dancing – Phil, Judy, Quintet or Dectet
- Snow – Phil, Judy, Bob, Betty, Snoring Man, Mrs. Snoring Man, Passengers
- What Can you Do with a General – Martha, Bob, Phil
- Let Me Sing and I’m Happy – Martha
- Count Your Blessings – Bob, Betty
- Blue Skies – Bob, Chorus
ACT TWO
- I Love a Piano – Phil, Judy, Chorus
- Falling out of Love can be Fun – Martha, Betty, Judy
- Sisters Reprise – Bob, Phil
- Love, You Didn’t Do Right by Me / How Deep is the Ocean – Betty, Bob
- The Old Man – Bob, Men
- Let me Sing and I’m Happy Reprise – Susan
- How Deep is the Ocean (reprise) – Betty, Bob
- The Old Man (Reprise) – Bob, Phil, Sheldrake, Men
- White Christmas – The Company
- I’ve Got My Love to Keep me Warm – Company
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