Disaster! Hits West Hudson: Open Auditions for WhatCo's 70s Musical

Get ready to boogie back to the 70s! The West Hudson Arts & Theatre Company (WhatCo) is calling all thespians, singers, and dancers to audition for its mainstage season musical, "Disaster!", a rollicking tribute to the 1970s disaster film genre peppered with iconic pop hits of the era. What are thespians?  It’s a fancy word for actors.  Google it!

Set in 1979, "Disaster!" unfolds on a floating casino and discotheque, teeming with New York's crème de la crème. The plot spirals into chaos as the characters – ranging from a faded disco star and a nightclub singer to a disaster expert and an untrustworthy businessman – navigate a series of catastrophic events. The show is a fusion of humor, nostalgia, and adrenaline, underscored by hits like “Knock on Wood,” “I Am Woman,” and “Hot Stuff.”

The auditions, slated for Saturday & Sunday, January 27 and 28, 2024, promise an opportunity for local talent to shine under the guidance of a stellar creative team. Directed by Jessa Blackthorne, with Scott Burzynski directing the music, Bong Dizon choreographing and Athena Nakrosis stage-managing, this production is all set to be a blockbuster. The play is based on a book written by three-time Emmy Award nominee and SiriusXM Broadway host, Seth Rudetsky, and Jack Plotnick.

Auditioners are asked to prepare 32 bars of a 70s pop song and be ready to show off their dance moves. With a variety of roles available, from the charming Chad and goofy Scott to the unscrupulous Tony and the straight-laced disaster expert Ted, there's a character for every type of performer.

This production isn't just a trip down memory lane. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of the 70s – a time of boldness, freedom, and unabashed fun. Whether you're an aspiring actor or a seasoned performer, "Disaster!" offers a unique platform to showcase your talent.

The rehearsals, beginning in February 2024, will culminate in performances from April 26 to May 4. This is not just an audition call but an invitation to be part of a vibrant community that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and the sheer joy of performing.

For more details, visit WhatCo's website or contact [email protected]. Remember to list any scheduling conflicts on your audition form. Auditions will be held at WhatCo's headquarters located at 15 South Frank E. Rodgers Blvd. in Harrison NJ., the former Holy Cross Grammar School that contains a very high-ceiling center of the building with a beautiful theatre.

In the words of one of the show's hit songs, it's time to get "Hooked on a Feeling" – the exhilarating feeling of being part of a theatrical masterpiece. See you at the auditions!

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