A packed ballroom at The Bull Hotel on Thursday 5th January bore witness to the launch of Bridports new community theatre project ‘FLEA!’.
Over 120 people enthusiastically sat, stood and tapped their feet to an evening of music and presentations from the projects team members who are looking to involve people in all aspects of the production.
The show, which is written by Composer Andrew Dickson, tells the story of a whacky and absurd flea circus where ukuleles form the main musical backdrop and storyline. The lead role of the ringmistress, Madame Celine, will be played by Hester Goodman of the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain who delighted the audience by fronting the 6 piece band who demonstrated some of the songs from the show.
Producer Sally Vaughan, Director Niki McCretton and Choreographer Anna Golding explained how anyone can get involved in bringing this extraordinary circus to life.
Feedback from members of the public expressed a feeling of excitement ,warmth and a positive atmosphere of inclusivity and above all fun.
Audition workshops are already underway for ukulele players and dancers, and over the next week the project is concentrating on auditioning actors. Acting parts also involving singing but not necessarily ukulele playing.
Auditions
The Acting Audition Workshops will be taking place on Sunday 22nd (10am-4pm) and Tuesday 24th Jan (7pm-9pm) at The Lyric Theatre, Barrack Street, Bridport.
The show has roles for ukulele players, singers, actors, circus acts, and even dogs (althought we are not casting dogs just yet!).
It will also be needing lots of hands on help with set building and ancillary roles behind the scenes – all of which are necessary in getting the show on the road.
As Sally said, ‘… there really is something for everybody. We want to make a fantastic show and we want to make sure everyone has a great time doing it. You can be assured you are in safe hands with this team of experienced arts practitioners who are dedicated to making this show the spectacle that it is designed to be. All we need now is you!’
‘We’ve already had a lot people come forward wanting to get involved and we’ve been blown away by the reaction so far… One woman who keeps sheep told me she made sure the ram got sent in with ewes early so she won’t be lambing when the performances are on…that’s dedication for you!’
Please contact info@ukuleleopera.org.uk for further info and/or to let us know which audition session you will be attending.
The perfomances will take place between 23-27th May at the Electric Palace, Bridport.
http://www.ukuleleopera.org.uk/
