Auditions Being Held for ‘The King and I’ in Volcano

The Kilauea Drama & Entertainment Network (KDEN) will be holding auditions to cast performers of all ages in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The King and I.”  Auditions will be held on Monday and Tuesday, May 18 and 19 at 6:30 p.m. at KMC’s Kilauea Theater in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

The stage performance is based on a 1944 novel by Margaret Landon called “Anna and the King of Siam,” and follows an English widow, Anna, and her young son who are summoned to the Royal Palace in Bangkok to tutor the King’s many wives and children.  The King seeks Anna’s help in reforming his barbarian image in the West, and unexpectedly, his ways.  While both hold fast to their own customs and values, the King and Anna grow to respect and love one another in a unique romance.

Major parts are available for three women, two men, and two boys.  Two men are needed for featured roles, as well as performers for a song and dance ensemble including royals, wives, children, priests, and Amazons.  Auditioneers should dress comfortably and be prepared to sing with accompaniment and dance.  Those interested in leading roles will need to read some scripted lines.

The show will be directed by Suzi Bond, with musical direction by Kait Wilson and choreography by Carmen Richardson.  The orchestra will be conducted by Pedro Ka‘awaloa, with set designs by Jonathan Sudler and costume construction led by Helie Rock.

For more information, contact KDEN at 982-7344 or e-mail kden73@aol.com.

The show is scheduled to run from July 10 – 26, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.