Guess what’s coming to Toowoomba:
Casting call for famous production
Empire Theatre general manager Kerry Saul: There is an air of excitement surrounding it already. We expect it to be huge.
THE Empire Theatre is about to embark on its largest theatre productions in its illustrious history.
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera will be the theatre’s major production next year.
Empire Theatre general manager Kerry Saul said he expected the cream of Australian theatrical talent to audition for roles in the production when auditions opened this weekend.
“The Phantom of the Opera is one of the biggest theatre productions in history,” Mr Saul said.
“Worldwide, the production has grossed more than $6.5 billion.
“It is an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for people involved in theatre,” he said.
Mr Saul said the show would run for two weeks next April with interest already being shown from across the country.
“We decided to run the show over two weeks to give the production its due,” he said.
“The Empire Theatre is the perfect fit for a production such as The Phantom of the Opera.
“There is an air of excitement surrounding it already. We expect it to be huge.”
Mr Saul said the director, John Senczuk from Western Australia, had been specifically brought in to head-up the production.
“It is by far the biggest show, with the biggest budget, we have embarked on,” he said.
“John Senczuk is a career theatre person.
“The production certainly poses some challenges.
“There are points in the script which are iconic and need to be done correctly.”
Mr Saul said a casting call would be held on October 12 and 13, but he remained coy as to who might fill the main roles.
“The Phantom of the Opera does not just have one character,” he said.
“We believe we can source the talent for the main roles locally. If not, there are certainly contingency plans in place.
“I am always surprised at the level of talent which turns up on audition day.
“You never really know who might actually audition for a role in the production.”
For audition and ticketing information visit www.empiretheatre.com.au.