Footlite Musicals is proud to announce open auditions for Kiss Me, Kate, directed by Paula Phelan.
Please bring 16-32 bars of a song from a Golden Age musical that shows off your vocal talent, with sheet music in the correct key for the provided accompanist. A change of clothes for the dance portion of the audition is encouraged.
We are committed to inclusive casting, welcoming performers of all shapes, sizes, colors, and abilities. All performers must be over 18 years of age. No virtual auditions. No conflicts allowed after April 13. Most male-presenting roles will wear tights or form-fitting pants.
If you have any questions regarding the audition process, please contact us.
The recipient of the first Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949, Kiss Me, Kate makes a fourth return to the Footlite stage. Passions run high as leading lady Lilli Vanessi and her ex-husband, actor/director Fred Graham, battle onstage and off in a production of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew.” With romance, comedy, sophistication, and behind-the-scenes high jinks, “Kiss Me, Kate” combines the irreverent humor of four brilliant writers: Sam and Bella Spewack, Cole Porter and William Shakespeare. Hoosier born Porter is at the top of his game with such great musical numbers as “So in Love,” “Wunderbar,” “Tom, Dick or Harry,” “Too Darn Hot,” “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” “I Hate Men,” “Always True to You (In My Fashion)” and “Another Op’nin, Another Show.”
Book by Sam and Bella Spewack
Music and Lyrics by Cole Porter
Fred Graham (Petruchio) – 40+, Baritone – range G4-A2
The producer, director, and star of The Taming of the Shrew. Not nearly as handsome and talented as he thinks he is, but can be a very smooth operator when he needs to be. Having a bit of a mid-life crisis. Should feel comfortable with stage combat – we’ll help you – and physical comedy, as well as the lion’s share of the Shakespearean dialogue. Oh yes. Sing and move, too. Lilli’s ex-husband.
Lilli Vanessi (Katherine) – 40+, Soprano – range B5-B3
A fading movie star, who was once married to Fred, she has a temper problem. She is also wracked with insecurities about being on stage with a live audience again. Still in love with Fred, even though she does not want to admit it. Must be comfortable with physical comedy as well as the Queen of the Night moment at the end of Act I.
Lois Lane (Bianca) – Late 20s-early 30s, Mezzo – range F5-G3
The smartest dumb actress who wants to be a star on Broadway. She thinks Fred is her ticket to stardom, but her heart is set on Bill Calhoun. She is clearly younger than Fred, but not in an icky way. Huge dance numbers that feature her. She does not have any kind of fake, little girl, “dumb-blonde” accent.
Bill Calhoun (Lucentio) – Matches Lois in age, Baritone – range F4-G2
A hoofer with a charming manner and a gambling problem. Always can weasel his way out of anything – almost. Huge dance numbers featuring him.
Hattie – Same approximate age as Lilli, Mezzo – range F5-A3
Nominally Lilli’s assistant/dresser, she is Lilli’s ride or die, support system, understander of all-things-Lilli, and has seen about everything that you could possibly see on stage. She is the calm in the storm. Must move well.
Paul – Same approximate age as Fred, Baritone – F#4-C3
Performs the same role for Fred as Hattie does for Lilli. However, he doesn’t listen very well sometimes. Huge dance number featuring him at the beginning of Act II.
Gremio – Any age
One of Bianca’s suitors. Featured in several vocal and dance numbers. Must feel comfortable with stage combat – we’ll teach you. Mainly Shakespearean dialogue.
Hortensio – Any age
Another one of Bianca’s suitors. Featured in several vocal and dance numbers. Must feel comfortable with stage combat – we’ll teach you, too. Mainly Shakespearean dialogue.
First Man – Mature, Baritone (kind of)
Very precise way of speaking – no contractions and excellent, if overplayed diction.
Second Man – Mature, Baritone (kind of)
Works in tandem with First Man.
Harry Trevor (Baptista) – Very mature
Sings in the ensemble but plays the father of Katherine. Mainly Shakespearean dialogue.
Harrison Howell – Significantly older than Lilli
Does not sing, and only appears in Act II. Pompous politician. Owns a farm. Calls it Contentment. Takes 3 naps a day. Eats Wheaties for breakfast. Exciting guy.
Stage Manager (Ralph) – Any age
Runs the show with precision – except when no one listens to him.
Stage Doorman (Pops) – Very mature
Has seen it all.
Ensemble – Every other part not listed will be taken from the ensemble. Extremely active dancing and singing.