Big Fish
by Austin Playhouse
Mar. 08 - Mar. 17 (2023)
Based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest… and then some! Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him. But his son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father’s epic tales. . . .
The play is directed by Lara Toner Haddock with musical direction by Lyn Koenning.
AUDITION NOTICE!
Austin Playhouse is seeking actors who sing and dance for the upcoming musical Big Fish - music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa, book by John August. Rehearsals will begin May 2023.
Video auditions: Please sing an audition cut no more than two minutes long of a contemporary musical theatre selection, preferably not one from the show. Headshots, resumes, and video auditions must be submitted by the end of the day on March 17 to be considered for a callback invitation. To submit, please send a headshot, resume, and a video audition to austinplayhouse@gmail.com.
In-person callbacks will take place at Austin Playhouse (405 W 22nd St) the evening of March 22 and daytime on March 25 and/or 26.
Performances are June 2 - July 2, Thursday-Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 5 pm.
Character List
Edward Bloom – *This role has been cast.*
Will Bloom – Edward’s son, a realist and a pragmatist; and the polar opposite of Edward. His journey of reconciliation with his father is the story of the musical. Vocal Range: Tenor C#3-G4.
Sandra Bloom – *This role has been cast.*
Young Will – Boy, to play 12. *Must be at least 9 years old to be considered* Intrigued by his father’s stories, but already starts to doubt their truth. Vocal Range: B below middle C to C an octave above middle C.
Josephine Bloom – Will’s wife. She supports and helps guide Will’s journey toward reconciliation with his father. Vocal Range: Mix/belt to C#5
Karl the Giant – A giant, one of Edward’s fantasy friends. Through Edward’s friendship, he grows from being a ‘beastly’ outcast to a highly successful businessman. Requires an actor who has an appreciation for comic irony and, perhaps, stilt walks. Vocal Range: Bass, A3 to D4
Amos Calloway/Dr. Bennett – A werewolf, another of Edward’s fantasy friends. Masquerading as a ringmaster of a broken-down circus, he begins as Edward’s tormentor but then, through Edward’s acceptance, he accepts himself and becomes highly successful. Will also play Dr. Bennet, the experienced and wise country doctor, Edward’s contemporary. Vocal Range: Baritone, C3-F5, touches a G5.
Don Price – Edward’s childhood frenemy, an early buddy, bully, and rival for Sandra’s hand. This role requires a strong actor with a comic sensibility. Vocal Range: Baritone, C3-F#4.
The Witch – The earliest and most fantastic of Edward’s “imaginary” acquaintances, who shows him how he’ll die. Vocal Range: High belt, F3-F5.
Jenny Hill – Edward’s teenage sweetheart. This role ages from 18 to 60+. Vocal Range: Mix/belt to E5.
Girl in the Water – Plays a mermaid from Edward’s stories, and appears in the ensemble numbers. Vocal Range: Mix/belt to C#5
Zacky Price/Mayor – Younger brother and shadow of Don Price. Vocal Range: Baritone/Tenor up to F#.
Actors of all races and ethnicities are encouraged to audition. AEA and non-AEA welcome to submit. All roles are paid. This production is being produced under a SPT Tier 1 Equity agreement ($275/week salary for Equity actors.)
