Chat About Hexagon Players, Mendham NJ - 5/13-15,19-21 2016

kport
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Chat About Hexagon Players, Mendham NJ - 5/13-15,19-21 2016

Post by kport »

This casting notice appeared today, for a mid-May production by the Hexagon Players in Mendham NJ.

https://www.exploretalent.com/auditions ... pkhNn0rLnA
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CJ-Rochester
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Re: Unknown NJ Theatre - May 2016

Post by CJ-Rochester »

Here's another casting notice that seems to be for the same production. This one specifically says "Non-Union, No Pay (Community Theater)".

https://kidscasting.com/casting-calls/n ... view=48997
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Re: Unknown NJ Theatre - May 2016

Post by kport »

The plot thickens........... :geek:
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Hexagon Players, Mendham NJ May 2016

Post by kport »

And now we know:
NJ Community Theatre Premiere of Billy Elliot the Musical presented by Hexagon Players will take place at Grace Lutheran Church (65 E. Main Street in Mendham, NJ).
http://www.auditionsfree.com/2016/new-j ... t-musical/
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by kport »

Auditions are currently underway this weekend. I enjoy reading the audition info that most regionals publish. This one is honest in explaining the reasons for toning down the language (and Lee Hall's quote is an important explanation of the reasons for such invective).
A NOTE ABOUT LANGUAGE
"I am aware that certain producers/ audiences may have problems with specific words and am happy if you wish to substitute less provocative words or phrases. I think this is best done by the individuals involved who know their audiences better than me. However I would urge you to find alternatives which respect the robust atmosphere and culture within which the musical is set.”
-Lee Hall, Book & Lyrics, Billy Elliot

In respect to Mr. Hall, Hexagon Players will be making modifications to the script that maintain intent but that allow us to provide a more family-friendly event for audiences of all ages to enjoy, which is a part of our community mission.
http://hexagonplayers.wix.com/billyelliot

http://media.wix.com/ugd/b71c3a_5333079 ... 10c721.pdf
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by angelenroute »

In respect to Mr. Hall, Hexagon Players will be making modifications to the script that maintain intent but that allow us to provide a more family-friendly event for audiences of all ages to enjoy, which is a part of our community mission.
The "intent" is extremely important. I worry about the open-ended phrase "modifications to the script", but I trust they know not to make modifications that change intent.

"Good writers define reality; bad ones merely restate it." -Edward Albee
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by kport »

angelenroute wrote:
In respect to Mr. Hall, Hexagon Players will be making modifications to the script that maintain intent but that allow us to provide a more family-friendly event for audiences of all ages to enjoy, which is a part of our community mission.
The "intent" is extremely important. I worry about the open-ended phrase "modifications to the script", but I trust they know not to make modifications that change intent.
I have to give them credit for this public acknowledgement. I have been to several regionals which modified the script, to various degrees/success, and never acknowledged the fact. That this theatre has done so gives me hope that it will endeavor to maintain the script's original intent.

I note also that the audition guidelines include notes on the Geordie accent.
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by angelenroute »

Good point. And good on 'em.

"Good writers define reality; bad ones merely restate it." -Edward Albee
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by CJ-Rochester »

Nine year old Parker Fullmore has been cast as Billy. You have to expand the comments to see that it's this production. Congrats Parker!
https://www.facebook.com/ParkerFullmore ... 8570612249

Here's a video of him singing Electricity. He certainly is dressed for the role. :)
https://vimeo.com/155242976
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Re: NJ Community Theatre, Mendham NJ - May 2016

Post by CJ-Rochester »

There appear to be two Billys in this production, per these rehearsal photos from Hexagon Players' Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BChEwJZRbr- ... yathexagon
https://www.instagram.com/p/BChEfySxbrk ... yathexagon
https://www.instagram.com/p/BChEIw4RbrK ... yathexagon
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