ON THEATER: Gallimaufry seeking ‘Cabaret’ cast

Life is a cabaret — or at least it was in pre-World War II Berlin. And the celebrated John Kander and Fred Ebb musical drama is about to resurface in Laguna Beach.

“Cabaret” was born as the novel “Berlin Stories” by Christopher Isherwood and became a theatrical project when playwright John Van Druten adapted it for the stage. Then, of course, came the big musical which launched the career of Liza Minnelli, earning her a Tony award and an Oscar.

Laguna’s Gallimaufry Performing Arts has chosen “Cabaret” as its next production and will hold auditions for the show from 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Veteran Memorial Community Center (Legion Hall), 384 Legion St..

Jonelle Allen is directing the show, which will be choreographed by Tod A. Kubo and musically directed by Garrett Wolfe. Auditions are by appointment only, and these may be made by calling (949) 499-5060.

Apparently the leading roles of Sally Bowles and the emcee are precast because there are no casting requirements for their characters on the audition notice. Likewise the roles of Fraulein Schneider, Herr Schultz and Fraulein Kost are not listed. However, understudies for these assignments are being sought.

The part of Sally’s lover, Clifford Bradshaw, is available, and Gallimaufry is seeking an actor from 25 to 35 with a baritone (high E to low G) voice. Also to be cast are German businessman Ernst Ludvig, age 30-50 and Caucasian. The “Two Ladies” in the number of that title may be two women, or one man and one woman with singing and dancing strength. A young Aryan-looking lyric tenor, 18 to 30, will be cast for the key vocal number “Tomorrow Belongs to Me.”

Also required are a number of Kit-Kat girls (high E to low G) and boys (high G to low A). All must be strong singer-dancers. All cast members must be 18 or older, and auditioners should come prepared with 16 bars of two contrasting songs in the Broadway musical theater genre. An accompanist will be provided. Dancing and additional cold readings from the script will be scheduled later in the day.

“Cabaret” will open July 17 for two weekends at the Artists’ Theater at Laguna Beach High School. Call (949) 400-5060 for more.

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Coastline Pilot.