Miscast Cabaret
- Director: Jeff LaMothe
- Host: Josh Bowen
- Choreographer: NJ Nicholson
- Producer: Greg Ruvolo
What is a Miscast Cabaret?
Miscast Cabaret is an arrangement of different acts, whether musical or non-musical, that are put together into one show that features performers in roles they would never actually be cast in. If you are having trouble visualizing what that means, picture the “Cell Block Tango” from Chicago being performed by all men, or “If I Only Had a Brain” from The Wizard of Oz being performed by a woman. Hopefully, that helps to clarify the concept a bit more. While both of those examples are miscast because of gender, please keep in mind that miscast does not just have to be based on gender.
Important Dates:
Informal Drop-In Q&A Info Session
- Wednesday, December 13, from 7-8 p.m. in the BVP Lobby
Auditions
- Thursday, January 4, from 7-10 p.m. at the Playhouse
- If you plan to audition, please sign up for a time slot here.
Performance
- Saturday, February 3, at 7:30 p.m.
Ticket Info:
- This is a fundraiser event. It is General Admission and donations will be accepted at the door.
How to Prepare
One of the best parts of a miscast cabaret is that sometimes the meaning of a song can completely change once it is miscast. Let’s challenge each performer to make the song they choose their own. While it is always fun to hear someone belt out their favorite tune, we are looking for performers who really make the song their own and give it some fun twists. Don’t be afraid to get creative with it. Each performer will be responsible for all their own props, costumes, and music. In true community theatre fashion, let’s make some magic! We strongly encourage the use of a track for your backing music, as there will be minimal time and space between acts to set live musicians. Lights, sound and projections will be available for the performance.
Come to auditions prepared with:
- Your piece ready for audition
- Any required music (we will have a Bluetooth speaker and CD player available)
- Your own props, if any
- Your own choreography
Miscast or Not Cast
While we would love to cast every person who auditions so they can shine bright performing their favorite miscast act, we must keep the show no more than roughly 2 hours in length. However, we would love to feature every single person who auditions in some way, whether that be helping backstage to manage the acts, or being featured in our ensemble for the show. Regarding the ensemble for the show, my goal is to use the ensemble for different acts that may require it. For example, if someone were to perform “If I Only Had a Brain” from The Wizard of Oz, it could elevate the performance by adding a small ensemble to the scene. Maybe a miscast Dorothy? A miscast Witch? Toto? The possibilities are endless. You may be featured in one act, or a few throughout the night. So, although you may not get cast singing the song you initially were performing at the audition, we still have a place for you to shine!
Notes
The goal is to have fun and really embrace the community aspect of our theatre. With that in mind, all acts should be lighthearted and good-natured. Additionally, race-based miscasts are highly discouraged. Finally, please avoid the Park and Bark Ballad (stand and sing). Don’t be afraid to move, find the comedy and the new perspective the act has now that YOU are performing it.
Contact
If you have any specific questions or need clarification, please contact Jeff LaMothe at jeff.lamothe@birminghamvillageplayers.com.