With final auditions for "Legally Blonde: The Musical" on Aug. 30 and 31, the Jamestown Community College Uncommoners are preparing to mount their biggest production ever.
In addition to the regular bevy of actors and actresses, director Robert Schlick has also had to invite four-legged actors to audition for the show.
"Roxie," a Chihuahua owned by Cathy Belin, will portray the part of Elle Woods' dog, Bruiser, while Emily - an English bulldog owned by Susan Walters and Dave Swart - will portray Rufus, the dog owned by the character of Paulette the hairdresser.
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The dogs will receive additional training to prepare for their roles on stage under the guidance of dog trainers Scott Barton and Phil Klinginsmith.
More than a dozen dogs interacted with dog trainers during the auditions earlier this summer. Some of the dogs were able to perform tricks, while all of them were analyzed for cuteness, appropriateness and temperament. Each dog's previous stage experience and the availability of owners to attend rehearsals and performances were also considered.
Rehearsals will begin in September. Performances will be held in November in JCC's Scharmann Theatre.
The Aug. 30 and 31 auditions will begin at 7 p.m. in Scharmann Theatre. Anyone age 16 and up is welcome to audition. Those auditioning should memorize a song and bring sheet music for the accompanist. They should also wear loose-fitting clothing and be prepared to learn some dance moves.
The production calls for a cast of 40 people. According to director Robert Schlick, males ages 16 to 60 as well as male and female dancers, singers, acrobats, and gymnasts are needed.
"Legally Blonde: The Musical" follows the efforts of a girl who wants to be a lawyer, depicting her journey from looking at the world in a childish way to becoming a mature, successful woman. It begins as a fairy tale of believing that life will work out if you look good and marry well, and ends as a fairy tale that has been achieved through hard work.
When "Legally Blonde: The Musical" played on Broadway, it earned Tony award nominations, a Drama Desk award and Outer Critics award nominations. The show, ranked in the top 10 most requested for tickets, features 18 songs and plenty of costumes, settings and high-powered dancing.
For more information, call 338-1153.