Press release:

Burien Little Theatre announces auditions for the musical “Young Frankenstein,” written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks.

“Young Frankenstein” utilizes an ensemble cast of characters ranging in age from mid-20s through mid-50s. All parts are open and available and all actors are encouraged to audition.

Synopsis: IT'S ALIVE! A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic 1974 comedy film masterpiece, the story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that's Fronkensteen) as he attempts to complete his grandfather's masterwork and bring a corpse to life.

But this musical comedy hit, winner of the 2008 Outer Critics Circle Award, is not without scary and hilarious complications. Accompanied by a live musical combo, the show includes such memorable tunes as "The Transylvania Mania," "He Vas My Boyfriend" and the famous "Puttin' On The Ritz.”

Performances are at Burien Little Theatre in Burien from Sept. 20 through Oct. 27, 2013. Rehearsals begin in August, though they may start a little earlier depending on cast and director schedules.

Auditions are at Theater Puget Sound in the Seattle Center on Monday, April 8 (Room “C”) and Wednesday, April 10 from 7 to 10 p.m. (Studio T4).

Callback time, date and location will be announced at initial auditions.

The stage director is Steve Cooper. Music directors are Heather MacLaughlin-Garbes and Julie Parsons.

$100 stipend provided.

Please prepare a comedic monologue and two short contrasting songs (serious/comedy, ballad/patter); preferably at least one number highlights your vocal range. Bring written music (in your key) for accompanist, as well as resume and headshot. A cappella is discouraged. Callbacks will consist of cold readings from the script and work with music from the show.

Please make audition appointment: audition@burienlittletheatre.org, 206-242-5180.

Character Descriptions

Dr. Frederick Frankenstein – Male, age 20s/30s. Brilliant brain surgeon, professor and grandson of mad scientist Dr. Victor Von Frankenstein. Vocal range: Bb one octave below middle C to G above middle C.

The Monster – Male, age indeterminate. Played by a bigger man – the bigger the better. The misunderstood creation of Dr. Frankenstein. Vocal range: Ab one octave below middle C to F above middle C. Also must be able to emit howling/monster/grunting sounds. Knowledge of tap dancing a plus.

Igor – Male, age 20s/30s. Frederick’s faithful, bright-eyed, eager servant and friend--with a hunchback. Vocal range: D below middle C to F above middle C.

Inga – Female, age 20s. Frederick’s bubbly, not-so-bright young assistant. Sexy, attractive. A resident of Transylvania. Vocal range: G# below middle C to A above the treble staff. Yodeling is a plus.

Elizabeth Benning – Female, age 20s/30s. Self-loving, “madcap”, boisterous fiancé of Frederick. Vocal range: F# below middle C to F#, top line of the treble staff.

Frau Blücher (whinney..!) - Female, age 30s/40s. Intense, stern housekeeper of Frankenstein estate. Former lover of Victor Frankenstein. Vocal range: F## (G natural) below middle C to B, third line treble staff.

Inspector Hans Kemp – Male, age 40s/50s. Head of the police in Transylvania, with a wooden arm and leg. Justice-driven. A one octave below middle C to F above middle C. Will double as the Blnd Hermit – Lonely, poor, blind town hermit longing for a friend. Vocal range: Bb one octave below middle C to Db just above middle C.

Swing cast, 4 male and 4 female, with plenty of featured roles, lot of juicy lines and singing, including a barbershop quartet. We are looking for people with strong dance/movement training. This group will portray gravediggers, villagers, medical students, passengers, mad scientists and various supporting roles, including:

* Dr. Victor Von Frankenstein – Male, age 40s/50s. Frederick’s infamous grandfather. Vocal range: C# below middle C to G# above middle C.
* Ziggy – Male, age 30s. Well-intentioned village idiot. Vocal range: F below middle C to F above middle C.