Bob Jones Musical Theatre to open auditions for ‘In the Heights’

Auditions for “In the Heights,” the 2015 spring musical by Bob Jones Musical Theatre, are scheduled for Sept. 8-11 in Zompa Auditorium. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – The buzz has already started, and artistic director Mary Davis has confirmed the rumor … “In the Heights” will be the 2015 spring musical at Bob Jones High School.

“In the Heights” focuses on Washington Heights residents in New York City. Bodega owner Usnavi cares for his next-door neighbor, an elderly Cuban woman. He also romanticizes about the girl working in the beauty shop next door.

“Usnavi dreams of winning to lottery to return to the Dominican Republic,” Davis said. “Then, Usnavi’s childhood friend Nina returns from college with surprising news.”

“In the Heights” studies why some people never want to leave home while others can’t wait for the first ticket out. Dialogue, choreography and music ranging from salsa to rap capture Washington Heights’ eclectic demographic.

The musical asks, “‘Where’s home?’ The answer is revealed in movements, music and conversations,” Davis said.

In Broadway’s coveted Tony Awards, “In the Heights” won for “Best Musical” in 2008 and for choreography, original score and orchestrations in other years, along with nine more nominations.

On Sept. 8 at 4 p.m., auditioning students will learn a dance routine in Zompa Auditorium. “No experience is needed. Just come in shoes and clothes easy to move in,” Davis said.

In addition, students will complete audition forms and receive a rehearsal schedule, stating time involved for each part.

On Sept. 9 at 4 p.m. in the choir room, boys will audition with acting and singing. “The guys need to have a 45-second to one-minute monologue from a book, movie, TV or self-written,” Davis said. They also will sing with sheet or instrumental music.

For the chorus, students can sing a simple song, like “Amazing Grace” or “Happy Birthday,” with piano.

On Sept. 10 at 4 p.m., students will dance twice in groups of five to audition. Davis will look for rhythm and coordination.

On Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. girls will audition, using the same guidelines as the boys.

The cast list will be posted on south doors on the night of Sept. 12.