One season seems to roll right into the next for the 100 Mile performing Arts Society, as it prepares for this week's auditions for its 2012 production, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.
It's a musical comedy set in ancient Rome, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and from the book by Burt Shevelove and Larry Gelbart.
The search is on to fill roles for the cast of 20-22, and according to director Marie Hooper, they're especially interested in seeing lots of males try out for parts.
"The play is top-heavy with men and we generally have a shortage of men at auditions. We really need the guys to come out and we don't care if they can sing or not - we can make them sing."
One face that won't be in the lineup is that of last year's director Andrew Halladay.
Halladay, also a gifted actor and musician, has since left the South Cariboo, and left a big hole in the local talent pool.
"We'll miss Andrew," says Hooper. "We hate to lose talent just as much as we dislike people sitting at home thinking they are not needed."
For the first time in at least a couple of years, the annual production does not feature any children's roles, which according to producer, Jan Richmond, has some parents of local child actors relieved to know they have a year off.
If young people try out and look old enough to play a part, she adds, they will be considered.
Auditions take place on Sept. 8-9 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the St. Timothy's Anglican Church basement.
Hopefuls must bring along their own choice of music and monologue and be prepared for callbacks on Sept 10.
In addition to directing, Hooper will also take charge of choreography, and local music teacher Pat Friesen takes on the job of music director for the first time with the company.
Support people for set design, costume design and other areas are also needed and those who are interested in helping can leave their name at the theatre company's booth at the upcoming South Cariboo Community Fall Fair.
Richmond says that due to the theme of the play, costumes will be relatively simple and there will only be one set to construct.
The play will run on Feb. 23-25 and March 1-3.
For more information or to volunteer to help, contact Richmond at 250-791-5477.
