Are you ready to step into the shoes of iconic actors like Kevin Costner, Cary Elwes, Errol Flynn, Alan Rickman, or Basil Rathbone? If so, you're in luck! The GCTAI has provided information from director Nathan French for the upcoming auditions at Javeenbah Theatre, so you don't miss your chance to be a part of "Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood".
Q: Tell us about yourself:
A: My name is Nathan French, I am a 23 year old Director/writer/performer who has been training and working in the Gold Coast community theatre scene for over 15 years. Sherwood will be my 6th show I have directed, previous works include next to normal, Footloose, Alice in Wonderland, Jack and the Beanstalk and Scallywags. I have also performed in many shows over the years, both plays and musicals. Most notable roles include playing Wayne Hopkins in Puffs and John Hinckley/ Proprietor in Assassins alongside performing in shows such as Chicago, The Brother Grimm Spectaculathon, BU21, Kinky Boots and many more. I’ve also devised my own interpretations of popular pantomimes like Cinderella, Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland and Jack and the Beanstalk, the latter two I directed.
Q: Are you looking for anyone to help with sound/lighting & back stage?
A: Always! Community theatre wouldn’t work without the volunteer help and Javeenbah Theatre is always looking for some extra help.
Q: Tell us a little about the play
A: The story of Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood begins with a young man who believes in nothing but a good time, then comes face to face with the kind of greed and inhumanity that won’t let him sleep at night. Suddenly he’s an outlaw hiding in Sherwood Forest where he joins up with a band of followers including Little John, Friar Tuck, and a feisty adventuress, Maid Marian Fitzwalter, who steals his heart and won’t give it back.
Packed with thrills, romance, laughter, and immortal characters like Little John, Friar Tuck, and Maid Marian, Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood tells the enduring story of a hero of the people who takes on the ruthless powers that be. So get ready to duck a quarterstaff or two - you won't want to miss a moment of the swashbuckling fun!
Q: Why did you choose to do this production, what drew you to it:
A: I’ve been drawn to the author’s, Ken Ludwig, work for a little while, ever since national theatre released in full his version of Treasure Island. Sherwood is the most modern professionally written production of the Robin Hood story and, while it is still set in 1100’s, it certainly feels fresh. This production definitely takes its inspiration from Errol Flynn’s The Adventures of Robin Hood focusing on the charming and daring nature of the story. And who could forget the sword fighting! The script is filled with exciting sword fights from beginning to end.
Q: What kind of challenges / experiences will the performers look forward to if successful in audition.
A: The most thrilling opportunity I feel for this production is the chance to learn and perform stage combat with swords, all roles will participate in some form of stage combat in the show. Rarely do performers get the opportunity to do such a thing in community theatre and I really do plan on focusing on bring that element of excitement. Of course, the show still gives plenty of opportunities to flex your comedic and dramatic muscles as well.
Q: What sort of availability should those successful in auditions have for rehearsals?
A: Rehearsals will be done on a Sunday, Monday and Wednesday schedule with Monday and Wednesday at night and Sunday during the day. Our show dates are September 22nd , 23rd , 24th , 29 th , 30th , October 1st , 5th, 6th, 7th
Q: What are you looking in during auditions?
A: I’m looking at anyone is willing to take a risk and put themselves out there. I want to see people’s own interpretations on these iconic characters. I understand that most people will not have had the chance to train in stage combat prior to the auditions so no previous stage combat experience is required.
Q: When are auditions taking place and how can people apply.
A: Auditions for Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood take place on Sunday the 11th of June. To find out more information click here to download the audition pack, or click here to register for auditions, or visit the Javeenbah website!
