Cheaper by the Dozen Auditions

Directed By
Kevin and Jackie Cochran

September 15, 2007 – 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
(ages 6-12) and 2:30 pm-4:00 pm (ages 13+)

September 17, 2007 – 6:00 pm-9:00 pm
(ages 6-12) and 7:30 pm-9:00 pm (ages 13+)

AUDITION FORM (download the form, pdf file)
VOLUNTEER FORM (download the form, pdf file)

Welcome to the Cheaper by the Dozen page.  We are very excited for this opportunity to direct one of our favorite family plays.  Although we are new at directing, we are not strangers to theater.  I grew up in theater and television as I watched my mother perform in different plays and soap operas back in my native home of Puerto Rico.  My husband, Kevin got “bitten” by the theater bug several years back and has received several awards at VPA including best newcomer and twice the award of best actor.

Auditions will take place at Valley Performing Arts on Saturday, September 15th and Monday, September 17th.  Please note the times for the auditions below.  I strongly suggest that you download the audition form and attach a recent picture of yourself or your child (from shoulders up), attach it to the form and bring it with you to the audition.  This will help speed up the process and run smooth auditions.

Saturday September 15th
 Ages 6-12- 12:00-2:00
Ages 13 and up- 2:30-4:00 (might run a little later).

Monday, September 17th
Ages 6-12- 6:00-7:00       
Ages 13 and up- 7:30-9:00

Please remember that these are estimated ending times as some of the auditions may take longer requiring us to stay a bit later.

It is imperative that you show up on time since it is one of the qualities I will be looking for in an actor. I will be there prior to that time to collect forms and guide you through the process. 

As I mentioned above we are very excited about the play and will take the time to cast actors that will give their best during the audition. Children 6-12 should bring a memorized poem, book, or a section from their favorite movie.  I will not ask for songs since this is not a musical.  I will be looking for stage presence, volume and clarity of voices.   I understand that some children will feel apprehensive about the process, but as a teacher I will help them feel at ease and make this a positive experience for them.
Actors ages 13 and above, please have a two minute monologue ready.  This monologue could be from a play, movie or a personal experience.  You will also be asked to read a section of the play and depending on the time, you might be asked to improvise on a situation given by the director.

Characters (the Gilbreth children)

Anne- approximately 17 yrs-
Ernestine- Around 16 yrs old.  Also the nostalgic narrator.
Martha- Around 15 yrs old
Frank- Around 14 yrs old.  Also the nostalgic narrator.
Bill- Around 13 yrs old                           
Lillian- Around 12 yrs. Old
Fred- Around 11 yrs old
Dan- Around 10 yrs old
Jackie (male)- Around 9 yrs old
child 10- Around 8 yrs. Old (female)
child 11- Around 6 or 7 yrs old  (female)
child 12- young or possibly a baby (female)

Other characters and characteristics

Dad
40-55 years old. Tall and no longer slim.  He carries himself with the self-assurance of a successful man who is proud of his wife, proud of his family and proud of his business accomplishments.

Mother  
40ish, Gracious, woman.   She is also a psychologist.  In her own way, she is often able to get even better results with her large family than Dad, but she is not a disciplinarian.  Soft spoken.

Mrs. Fitzgerald
50-60yrs.   Buxom, kind woman and completely devoted to the family.

Dr. Burton
50ish-Family doctor

Joe Scales
Joe is Anne’s age, very short and cocky.  Cheerleader and funny.  Athletic body (or close to it!).

Miss Brill 
Teacher.  Serious (in a comedic way).

Larry 
Larry is also Anne’s age, nice looking, clean cut boy.

Also, please remember that in order to have a successful play, you must commit to the times and dates.  All roles are important even if you do not have lines.  It is about being considerate to others since your absence can interfere with an actor and his/her scene.  I understand that school is a priority and I will not waste your time, however, please understand that during the weeks prior to opening night we might need to stay later than the regular time.  I will do my best.

Audition Schedule

I will provide you with a rehearsal schedule, however, please keep in mind that dates could change at the discretion of the director.  In case of changes in schedule you will be notified via e-mail or phone.
I hope you come and audition.  VPA is the best place to meet people, make friends and create memories that will last a lifetime.  It has been like an extended family to us.