Released August 16, 2005

HATTIESBURG – The Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company at The University of Southern Mississippi is announcing open auditions for its 2005-06 season. The season will feature Verdi’s grand opera La Traviata, A Broadway Christmas at the Saenger Theatre and the timeless musical West Side Story.

Auditions for West Side Story and A Broadway Christmas will be held Sept. 6, with La Traviata auditions to be held Sept. 8. All auditions will be held at the Mannoni Performing Arts Center Auditorium. Interested participants are asked to call and schedule an audition time.

SOMTC is looking for singers of all voices and dancers. “There are roles for young and old,” said Maryann Kyle, director of the Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company.

“Those auditioning for the musicals should come prepared to sing sixteen bars of their favorite musical theater selection and present a one-minute modern monologue.”

A pianist will be provided for the auditions, and appropriate sheet music should be supplied. Requirements for La Traviata are two operatic arias or songs presented in their original language. Those auditioning for the chorus are asked to bring one selection.

“We are very excited about the coming season,” Kyle said. “SOMTC will be presenting two of the most popular shows in history. La Traviata is filled with beautiful music, grand costumes and a tragic story line. West Side Story is always a crowd favorite, and with the outstanding talent found in the Hattiesburg area, I’m sure it will be a hit.”

For information and to schedule an audition time, call (601) 266-6059.

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