MONMOUTH — The Monmouth Community Players have announced auditions for the second show of their 2014-2015 season, the Tony award-winning musical “Grey Gardens.” The musical which contains music by Scott Frankel, lyrics by Michael Korie, and a book written by Doug Wright, brings to life both the delightfully eccentric aunt and cousin of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

Once among the brightest names in the pre-Camelot social register, Edith (‘Big Edie’) Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edith (‘Little Edie’) Bouvier Beale became East Hampton’s most notorious recluses, living in a dilapidated 28-room mansion alongside dozens of cats and piles of rubbish.

Set in two eras — in 1941 when the estate was at its full grandeur and in 1973 after it had been reduced to squalor — “Grey Gardens” brings to life an undoubtedly unique and memorable tale of fallen American royalty.

The production which will be directed and choreographed by Artistic Director Adam P. Blais, with musical direction by Rebecca Caron, will run from Friday, Jan. 30 through Sunday, Feb. 8, at the historic Cumston Hall.

Auditions for the production will be held at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 and Monday, Sept. 22,  in the Opera Hall.

Roles are available for a wide variety of ages. All individuals who are interested in auditioning for the production are asked to prepare two contrasting musical theatre selections in the style of the show, and to bring a list of conflicts. You must provide your own sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. The role breakdown is as follows:

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Edith Bouvier Beale/”Little” Edie Beale – (Age: 50s) The eccentric aunt (Act I) and cousin (Act II) of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Strong character actress. It is highly recommended that this actress be familiar with the documentary. Some dancing is required. Vocal range: Soprano/Belt.

“Big” Edie Beale – (Age: 70s) The eccentric aunt of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She fondly recalls her days of glory entertaining guests at lavish parties in the heyday of Grey Gardens. It is recommended that this actress also be familiar with the documentary. Vocal range: Alto.

Young “Little” Edie Beale/Ensemble – (Age: Early to mid-20s) The cousin of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She is betrothed to Joe Kennedy. Some dancing is required. Vocal range: Soprano/Belt.

Joseph Kennedy, Jr./Jerry – (Age: Early to mid-20s) The betrothed Joseph Kennedy in act one and the slow-witted teenage “handyman” Jerry in act two. Some dancing is required. Vocal range: Tenor.

George Gould Strong/Ensemble – (Age: 40s) The live-in pianist and confidante of Edith Bouvier Beale. Ability to play the piano is a must. Vocal range: High Baritone/Tenor.

Major Bouvier/Norman Vincent Peale – (Age: 60s-70s) The strict, domineering patriarch of the Bouvier family in act one, and the beloved minister and author of “The Power of Positive Thinking” in act two. Vocal range: baritone.

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Brooks Sr./Brooks Jr. – (Age 30s-40s) African-American. The Beale’s loyal servant Brooks Sr. in act one, and landscaper Brooks Jr. in act two. Vocal range: Baritone.

Jacqueline Bouvier/Ensemble – (Age: 13) Young, lovely, poised, and well-mannered. She is dearly in love with her wacky Aunt Edith and her performances. Vocal range: Juvenile mix/belt.

Lee Bouvier/Ensemble – (Age: 10) Tomboyish, energetic, and joyful. She shares her sister Jackie’s love of her Aunt Edith. Vocal range: Juvenile mix/belt.

For more information, email adam.p.blais@gmail.com.


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