WHAT: San Diego’s longest tenured alternative theater group, Sledgehammer Theater, is producing the premiere of a new version of “Under Construction,” originally written by Charles L. Mee, with additional text for this production provided by Alfred Jarry, Jason Rhoades, Donald Trump, Sledgehammer and others. This new version is titled, Under Construction: An American Masque and will be set within a contemporary banqueting hall, where spectators will be served a light repast while immersed within a collage of America today — scenes and songs and dances inspired by Norman Rockwell of the fifties, and scenes and songs and dances inspired by the installation artist whose work most resonates in today’s culture of socio-political corruption and moral degradation, Jason Rhoades. Rockwell and Rhoades juxtaposed side by side—then and now, the fifties and the present, the red states and the blue states, where we grew up and where we live today, a piece that is, like America, permanently under construction.
ARTISTIC TEAM: Following their exuberant and muscular production of Mee’s “Heaven on Earth” at the 2015 WoW Festival, “Under Construction” will be conceived, directed and designed by the same core artistic team consisting of Sledgehammer Founding Artists Scott Feldsher and Robert Brill (Feldsher will direct, Brill will design), Choreography by Robert J. Wagner, and an original score by Bill Brendle.
CASTING/NEEDED
ACTORS/PERFORMERS: Looking for versatile and open-minded actors/performers of ALL GENDERS and ages from 15-up, for an ensemble in which all actors will play multiple roles. All physical and character types. Actors may be cast in roles of opposite gender or different race/ethnicity. Actors should be in good physical shape and able to perform vigorous movement. Singing ability a plus, but not required. Special skills like playing an instrument, juggling, fire-eating, etc. are encouraged.
SINGERS: Looking for strong and adventurous singers of ALL GENDERS and vocal ranges. Do not necessarily have to be actors, but must be willing to be involved in staging, as necessary. Ability to read music, harmonize, and work in diverse styles (ranging from pop to classical).
DANCERS: Looking for adventurous dancers of all GENDERS, ages, and types. Dances will be created in collaboration with the performers. So, open mindedness, creativity, and a willingness to try anything are requirements. As the movement will shift quickly between genres and styles, versatility is important. Previous experience with contact improvisation is a plus.
DATES
Rehearsals and Production: Rehearsals August 23-October 18, with performances October 19-22. Rehearsals will consists of longer weekend rehearsals to accommodate the director who lives in Los Angeles, along with some evening rehearsals during week nights. Stipends provided for performers.
TO AUDITION
Please send Headshot and Resume and/or questions to artist@sledgehammer.org
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