By Grace Frost
Broadford Amateur Theatrical Society, BATS, are on the lookout for cast and crew members for its upcoming production of ‘Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story’.
BATS is a not-for-profit theatre group based in Broadford, who most recently showcased their performance of ‘Mamma Mia’ to seven fully-packed audiences, featuring an all-Mitchell Shire-based cast and crew.
The group’s upcoming musical ‘Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story’, chronicles the life and brief career of rock ‘n’ roll star Buddy Holly, a central figure of mid-1950’s popular music.
The show is set to feature performances of some of the era’s biggest hits including ‘Peggy Sue’, ‘Rave On’, ‘That’ll Be The Day’ and more.
The BATS’ performance of Buddy will be directed by Shaun Geerlings-Parker, marking his first production with the group.
Mr Geerlings-Parker has years of experience in theatre, having directed multiple musicals across Australia and New Zealand including two previous runs of Buddy.
BATS are on the lookout for an ‘energetic and musical cast’ to bring the show to life, including performers who can play instruments live on stage.
Auditions begin on Wednesday, February 1 and continue on Saturday, February 5 at Broadford Shire Hall.
“There’s roles in this show from age 16 right up to 75, so I encourage anyone to come along and audition for the show,” Mr Geerlings-Parker said.
“If you are new, and haven’t done anything before and keen to give it a go, [being part of] the ensemble gives you some really good opportunity.”
Mr Geerlings-Parker said BATS were yet to find someone to play Buddy, and were after an all-rounder aged in their late teens to mid 30’s to play the part.
“We’re looking for our Buddy and our Crickets – people that can play an instrument … Buddy and the Crickets actually perform a lot of the songs live on stage,” he said.
BATS is also on the lookout for crew members to assist in the show, set to feature about 300 lighting cues and a range of technical equipment and period pieces including old-style rock n roll microphones.
Mr Geerlings-Parker said those interested in being a crew member – working with costumes, hair and makeup, lighting or sound – were encouraged to send a message to BATS Facebook page.
‘Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story’ is scheduled to hit the stage for opening night on June 9, with seven performances scheduled throughout the month.
Audition, rehearsal and show information can be found at .
