Southampton - Center Stage at the Southampton Cultural Center will hold open auditions for performances of Stephen Schwartz's "Godspell" on Sunday, Aug. 9 at 3 p.m. and Monday, Aug. 10 at 6 p.m. in Southampton Cultural Center's Levitas Center. Performances will begin on Oct. 15 and run through Nov. 1.

Michael Disher directs and choreographs, and Robert Peterson musically directs.

"Godspell" (an archaic spelling of the word gospel), the 1970 musical by Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak, was (and remains) a musical phenomenon. It opened off Broadway on May 17, 1971 and via several transfers landed on Broadway, accumulating (like disciples) over 2,600 performances. Beloved and endearing, "Godspell" has played in various touring companies, international venues and revivals ever since. Several cast albums have been released over the years and one of its songs, "Day By Day" from the original cast album, reached #13 on the Billboard pop singles chart in the summer of 1972.

The structure of the musical is that of a series of parables, based on the Gospel of Matthew (though considerable material, such as the parables of the prodigal son and of the rich man and Lazarus, comes exclusively from the Gospel of Luke). These are then interspersed with a variety of modern music and period pastiche numbers with lyrics primarily from traditional hymns. Based on the Gospel According to St. Matthew, and featuring a sparkling score by Stephen Schwartz, "Godspell" boasts a string of well-loved songs, led by the international hit, "Day By Day." As the cast performs "Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All For The Best," "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side," the parables of Jesus Christ come humanly and hearteningly to life.

Roles In "Godspell" Include
 • Jesus, Tenor, Obviously Loving and Charismatic
 • John the Baptist/Judas, Baritone, Commanding Leader
 • Herb, Comic, Minimal Vocal Challenges
 • Sonia, The Vamp, Mezzo/Alto Requirements
 • Joanne, A Leader
 • Robin, The First Convert, Innocent, Mezzo Soprano Requirements
 • Jeffrey, High-Octane, Musical, Gymnastic
 • Lamar, Strong Tenor/Baritone Requirements
 • Peggy, Warm and Nurturing
 • Gilmer, Comedienne, Minimal Vocal Challenges
 • Chorus Vocal Requirements and Ability to Move Well

All cast members should be able to move/dance well. Gymnastic and flexible abilities are desired.

Rehearsals will begin in August, immediately following the auditions. Weekend availability may be required. Not all performers are required to be at all rehearsals. Ensemble rehearsals are mandatory.

This is an open call. Please arrive at the designated start time. Please bring 32 measures (sheet music, of course) of a show tune or rock standard. Dance shoes are highly recommended. Readings from the script will also occur.

For further information, call Southampton Cultural Center at 631-287-4377 or e-mail Michael Disher at dishermichael@hotmail.com.