Back Stage lists major U.S. film and TV productions that are currently casting or accepting submissions. On this page you'll find productions occurring in the greater New York area. Check for new listings every Thursday! (Website members only.)
The following listings are NOT casting notices but are intended to provide the best general information available on current projects. Back Stage East alternates between theatre one week and film and television the next. Unless otherwise stated, all contact with casting directors should be through the mail. Do not phone or visit casting directors' offices. Broadway shows under the Equity Production Contract are required to conduct EPAs (Equity principal auditions) once a year and Equity chorus calls every six months.
An asterisk (*) indicates an upcoming audition date.
FEATURE FILMS: CURRENTLY SHOOTING
*Adam, a drama directed by Max Mayer. Shooting Nov. 17-Dec. 18. Principals: No further casting. Background: seanpowers@yahoo.com. Pay is $50 per day, plus meals.
Fight the Panda Syndicate, a dark comic adventure directed by Jason J. Dale. Shooting now through the first week of December in New York City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. Principals: No further casting. Background: christopher.pickhardt@crazyelkproductions.com.
Ghost Town, a romantic comedy about a dentist bothered by a ghost. Directed by David Koepp. Shooting Oct. 14-Dec. 14. With Téa Leoni, Kristen Wiig, Greg Kinnear, and Ricky Gervais. Principals: No further casting. Background: Attn: Nadine, Central Casting New York, 1357 Broadway, Ste. 417, NYC 10018.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, a drama about two young people who fall for each other at a rock concert. Directed by Peter Sollett. Shooting Oct. 29-Dec. 10. With Michael Cera and Kat Dennings. Principals: No further casting. Background: Attn: Extras Casting, Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, c/o KAS Studios, 34-12 36th St., Astoria, NY 11106, or nickandnorah@gmail.com.
Push, a drama about a morbidly obese young woman who becomes pregnant and is diagnosed with HIV. Directed by Lee Daniels. Shooting Oct. 24-Dec. 7. Principals: Hopkins, Smith & Barden, 451 Greenwich St., #500, NYC 10013. Background: Attn: Extras Casting, Push Pictures, 609 Greenwich St., NYC 10014.
Sex and the City, a comedy based on the popular television series, directed by Michael Patrick King. Shooting Sept. 19-Dec. 16. With Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kim Cattrall, and Kristin Davis. Principals: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Background: Grant Wilfley Casting, 123 W. 18th St., 8th fl., NYC 10011.
UPCOMING FEATURE FILMS
*Collusions, Coverups, and Chicanery, a drama directed by Julian Williams. Shooting begins Jan. 14 in New York City. Principals and background: Crooked Stick Productions, 55 W. 116th St., Ste. 373, NYC 10026. Especially seeking African-born men and women (or actors who can convincingly play them). Some pay.
The Goose, a drama about an African immigrant to the United States. Directed by Rasaq Ajao. Shooting mostly weekends, mostly in Newark, N.J., from the last week of November through February. With Olakunle Ajiboye and Judith Mazadwu. Principals and background: tajad2000@yahoo.com. Seeking male and female West African actors, 20-60. Some pay.
New York Lately, a romantic dramedy directed by Gary King. Shooting December-January. With Jared Asato, Mark DiConzo, Jeremy Koerner, and Jennifer Dees. Principals and background: Email Rajni Narasi at info@kitchentablefilms.com. Nonunion; no pay.
Out of Brooklyn, a film set in New York City and Sicily. Director to be announced. Shooting begins in December. With Michael Sorvino, Leslie Easterbrook, Tamela D'Amico, and Joey Tuccio. Principals and background: Attn: Debbie, "Out of Brooklyn" Casting, 7 Birchbrook Dr., Valhalla, NY 10595.
*Paradise, an HD feature directed by Marc Lafia. Shooting December-March in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Principals and background: Irena Rogovsky, Paradise Films, 191 Sixth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217. No electronic submissions. Especially seeking people with a background in experimental theatre and performance art. Some pay. Also seeking production assistant (stipend available).
Six Bullets From Now, an action film set in 1971 about a heist at New York's Pierre Hotel. Directed by Stephen T. Kay. Shooting begins in December. With Josh Lucas, Dermot Mulroney, and Tim Roth. Principals: Avy Kaufman Casting, 180 Varick St., 16th fl., NYC 10014. Background: Heather Reidenbach, Central Casting New York, 1357 Broadway, Ste. 417, NYC 10018.
Street Lure, a drama directed by Carl Monego. Shooting weekends, January-March, in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and New Jersey. Principals and background: Carl Monego, 29 Clayton Rd., Hewitt, NJ 07421. The only principal roles yet to be cast are an early-20s Hispanic male and a late-20s male of Italian heritage; all types sought for background.
TV IN PRODUCTION
*30 Rock, a half-hour comedy for NBC about the backstage life of a network comedy show. Began shooting Aug. 20 and continues into March. Principals: No information available. Background: Barbara McNamara Casting, 249 W. 34th St., Ste. 500, NYC 10001. Currently on hiatus.
*Canterbury's Law, an hourlong drama for Fox about a defense attorney. With Julianna Margulies, Linus Roache, and Ben Shenkman. Principals: Julie Tucker Casting, 568 Broadway, Ste. 301, NYC 10012. Background: Central Casting New York, 1357 Broadway, Ste. 417, NYC 10018. Currently on hiatus.
Gossip Girl, an hourlong teen drama for the CW, based on the novels by Cecily von Ziegesar. With Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley, and Chace Crawford. Shooting continues into spring. Principals: No information available. Background: Grant Wilfley Casting, 123 W. 18th St., 8th fl., NYC 10011. As of press time, a spokesperson for the series had not responded to inquiries about the show's status in light of the writers strike.
*Law & Order, an hourlong NBC drama starring Sam Waterston, Jesse L. Martin, S. Epatha Merkerson, Milena Govich, Alana De La Garza, and Jeremy Sisto. New season began shooting Aug. 8. Principals: Lynn Kressel Casting, Pier 62, Room 304, West 23rd Street and Hudson River, NYC 10011. Background: Central Casting New York, 1357 Broadway, Ste. 417, NYC 10018. Shooting is in progress; no decision has been reached as to when production will be suspended if the writers strike is prolonged.
*Law & Order: Criminal Intent, an hourlong drama for the USA Network, starring Vincent D'Onofrio, Kathryn Erbe, Chris Noth, and Julianne Nicholson. Shooting from July 17 to April 2008. Principals: Lynn Kressel Casting, Pier 62, Room 304, West 23rd Street and Hudson River, NYC 10011. Background: Central Casting New York, 1357 Broadway, Ste. 417, NYC 10018. Shooting is in progress; no decision has been reached as to when production will be suspended if the writers strike is prolonged.
*Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, an hourlong NBC drama starring Christopher Meloni, Mariska Hargitay, Richard Belzer, Dann Florek, Ice-T, Adam Beach, B.D. Wong, Diane Neal, and Tamara Tunie. Shooting through March 2008. Principals: Jonathan Strauss, Lynn Kressel Casting, Pier 62, Room 304, West 23rd Street and Hudson River, NYC 10011. Background: Grant Wilfley Casting, 123 W. 18th St., 8th fl., NYC 10011. Shooting is in progress; no decision has been reached as to when production will be suspended if the writers strike is prolonged.
*Lipstick Jungle, an hourlong dramedy for NBC starring Brooke Shields, Kim Raver, and Lindsay Price. Principals: James Calleri Casting, 133 W. 25th St., 6th fl., NYC 10001 or casting@callericasting.com. Background: Grant Wilfley Casting, 123 W. 18th St., 8th fl., NYC 10011. Production is upcoming. A spokesperson for the show had no comment about how many episodes have been written and are ready to shoot.
DAYTIME DRAMA
All series are currently in production, and no announcements have been made about suspension of production in case of a prolonged writers strike.
All My Children (ABC). Judy Blye Wilson (casting director), Robert Lambert (associate, under-fives and background), 320 W. 66th St., NYC 10023. Send headshots, résumés, postcards.
As the World Turns (CBS). Mary Clay Boland (principals), LaMont Craig (under-fives), Kate Martineau (background), 1268 E. 14th St., Brooklyn, NY 11230. Send headshots and résumés.
Guiding Light (CBS). Rob Decina (casting director), Alison Goodman (associate, under-fives), Jill Creighton (assistant, background), 524 W. 57th St., Ste. 5320, NYC 10019. Accepts postcards and showcase invitations.
One Life to Live (ABC). Julie Madison (casting director), Victoria Visgilio (associate), Sheryl Baker-Fisher (assistant), 157 Columbus Ave., 2nd fl., NYC 10023. Send headshots and résumés or postcards only.
Broadway: Upcoming
The 39 Steps, Patrick Barlow's adaptation of John Buchan's novel, best known for its 1935 film version directed by Alfred Hitchcock. This stage edition previously played London's West End and the Huntington Theatre Company in Boston. Roundabout Theatre Company will produce it on Broadway. A cast of four actors will play 150 roles. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Previews begin Jan. 4, 2008, at the American Airlines Theatre, 227 W. 42nd St., NYC. Opens Jan. 15 for a limited run through March 16, 2008. EPAs: TBA.
Billy Elliot, a musical version of the 2000 film about a Welsh boy who dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Adult casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Child casting: Nora Brennan Casting, 752 West End Ave., Ste. MC, NYC 10025. Rehearsals begin in June 2008. Target opening: fall 2008. Last EPA for adult roles: Oct 18. Last Equity chorus call for adult dancers: Oct. 19. Last Equity chorus call for adult singers: Oct. 15. Last Equity principal dancer call for children: Oct. 13. Last Equity chorus call for child dancers: Oct. 20. Last Equity chorus call for child singers: Oct. 22. Last open call for boys: Nov. 11, 2006.
Boeing-Boeing, a transfer of the hit West End production of Marc Camoletti and Beverley Cross' 1960s comedy about an architect wooing three different airline stewardesses. Matthew Warchus directs. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Rehearsals begin March 2008 with a spring 2008 opening TBA. Last EPAs: Oct. 1, 2, and 3.
*Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, a revival of Tennessee Williams' 1955 Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, featuring an African-American cast. Debbie Allen directs. Casting: Peter Wise, 18034 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 403, Encino, CA 91316. Performances begin Feb. 12, 2008, at the Broadhurst Theatre, 235 W. 44th St., NYC. Opens on or about March 6 for a limited run. Upcoming EPAs: Nov. 29 and 30 and Dec. 1.
A Catered Affair, a musical version of Paddy Chayefsky's television play and its 1956 film adaptation. Harvey Fierstein is writing the book and is set to play a featured role. John Bucchino will write the score, and John Doyle (Company, Sweeney Todd) directs. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Broadway performances begin March 25 at the Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 W. 48th St., NYC. Opens April 17, 2008. Last Equity chorus call for singers: May 15.
Come Back, Little Sheba, a revival of William Inge's 1950 play, to be produced by Manhattan Theatre Club, starring S. Epatha Merkerson and directed by Michael Pressman. Casting: David Caparelliotis, Manhattan Theatre Club, 311 W. 43rd St., 8th fl., NYC 10036. Previews begin Jan. 3, 2008, at the Biltmore Theatre, 261 W. 47th St., NYC. Opens Jan. 21, 2008. Last EPA: Sept. 7.
The Country Girl, a revival of Clifford Odets' 1950 drama about an alcoholic actor attempting a comeback. Mike Nichols directs and Morgan Freeman, Frances McDormand, and Peter Gallagher will star. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Opens April 2008 at a theatre TBA. Last EPAs: Oct. 9 and 10.
Cry-Baby, a musical version of John Waters' 1990 film. A four-week workshop in Manhattan concluded in May. A pre-Broadway run at La Jolla Playhouse began Nov. 6. Plans are for a March 2008 opening at a Broadway theatre TBA. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Last EPA: Aug. 14. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 16. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 21.
Equus, a revival of Peter Shaffer's 1973 psychological drama. The hit London production will transfer with Daniel Radcliffe (the Harry Potter films) and Richard Griffiths (The History Boys). Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Rehearsals begin Aug. 11, 2008. Runs Sept. 25, 2008-Feb. 8, 2009, at a Shubert theatre TBA. Last EPAs: Nov. 25, 26, and 27.
The Female of the Species, a new play by Joanna Murray-Smith about an Australian author dealing with a young fan and writer's block. Michael Mayer directs. Annette Bening was to star but has withdrawn. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Pre-Broadway engagement: Feb. 5-March 16, 2008, at the Geffen Playhouse, Los Angeles. Performances begin April 11, 2008, at a Broadway theatre TBA. Opens April 28, 2008. Last EPAs: Aug. 13 and 14.
Godspell, a revival of the 1971 musical based on the Gospel of St. Matthew. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Rehearsals begin mid-June 2008. Performances begin mid- to late July 2008. Opens in August at a Shubert theatre TBA. Last EPAs: Nov. 16 and 19.
Guys and Dolls, a transfer of the 2005 Donmar Warehouse revival of the classic 1950 musical based on Damon Runyon characters. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Rehearsals begin January 2008. Performances begin February 2008 at a theatre TBA, with a March 2008 opening. Last EPAs: June 18, 19, and 20. Last Equity chorus calls for singers: June 21 and 22. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: June 25. Note: The production may be delayed due to the unavailability of the lead players.
In the Heights, a musical about a Hispanic neighborhood in Upper Manhattan. Closed Off-Broadway at 37 Arts on July 15. Performances begin Feb. 14, 2008, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 W. 46th St., NYC. Opens March 9, 2008. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Last EPAs: July 13 and 23. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 2. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 3. Last open call for singers: Aug. 8.
Les Liaisons Dangereuses, a revival of Christopher Hampton's stage version of Choderlos de Laclos' novel. Laura Linney stars. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Rehearsals begin March 11, 2008. Performances begin April 11, 2008, at the American Airlines Theatre, 227 W. 42nd St., NYC. Opens May 1, 2008, for a limited run. Last EPA: Nov. 6.
November, a new play by David Mamet about one day in the life of a president of the United States just before the election. Nathan Lane and Laurie Metcalf will star. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Performances begin Dec. 20 at the Barrymore Theatre, 243 W. 47th St., NYC. Opens Jan. 17, 2008, for a limited run. Last EPAs: July 5, 6, and 9.
Passing Strange, a musical about an African-American bohemian on a journey of self-discovery. Transfer of a production that ran at the Public Theater last spring. Casting for the Public production: Jordan Thaler, Heidi Griffiths, and Amy Potozkin, Public Theater, 425 Lafayette St., NYC 10003. Performances begin Feb. 8, 2008, at the Belasco Theatre, 111 W. 44th St., NYC. Opens Feb. 28, 2008. EPAs: TBA.
South Pacific, a revival of the 1949 Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, from Lincoln Center Theater. Bartlett Sher directs. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Rehearsals begin on or about Jan. 17, 2008. Previews begin on or about Feb. 28, 2008, at the Vivian Beaumont Theater, 150 W. 65th St., NYC. Runs through June 15, 2008. Last EPA: Aug. 28. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Oct. 1. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 16.
Stalag 17, a revival of Donald Bevan and Edmund Trzcinski's 1951 play about a group of American soldiers in a German POW camp during World War II. Spike Lee will direct. Clive Owen and Mark Wahlberg have been mentioned to star. Casting: Jim Carnahan and Kim Coleman, Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Opens May 2008 at a theatre TBA. Last EPA: Aug. 29.
Sunday in the Park With George, a revival by Roundabout Theatre Company of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's 1984 Pulitzer Prize-winning musical about the painter Georges Seurat. This production was presented by the Menier Chocolate Factory in London in the 2005-06 season. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Rehearsals begin Dec. 11. Previews begin Jan. 18, 2008, at Studio 54, 254 W. 54th St., NYC. Opens Feb. 14, 2008. Last EPA: Sept. 21.
Top Girls, a revival of Caryl Churchill's 1982 play, presented by Manhattan Theatre Club. Casting: David Caparelliotis, Manhattan Theatre Club, 311 W. 43rd St., 8th fl., NYC 10036. Previews begin April 15, 2008, at the Biltmore Theatre, 261 W. 47th St., NYC. Opens May 7 for a limited run. Last EPA: Sept. 28.
Treasure Island, a stage version of Robert Louis Stevenson's novel. Casting: Pat McCorkle Casting, 575 Eighth Ave., 18th fl., NYC 10018. Postponed from a summer 2007 opening. Target opening: 2007-08 season. Last EPAs: April 10, 11, and 12.
Broadway: Currently Playing
*Avenue Q, a musical featuring live actors and puppets. Casting: Cindy Tolan Casting, 145 Sixth Ave., 7th fl., NYC 10013. John Golden Theatre, 252 W. 45th St., NYC. Opened July 31, 2003. Last EPA: June 12. Last open call: Feb. 11. Upcoming Equity chorus call: Dec. 11.
*Chicago, a revival of the 1975 musical. Casting: Duncan Stewart, National Artists Management Company, 165 W. 46th St., Ste. 1202, NYC 10036. Ambassador Theatre, 219 W. 49th St., NYC. Opened Nov. 14, 1996. Upcoming EPA: Nov. 29. Last Equity chorus call: Nov. 28.
A Chorus Line, a revival of the 1975 musical. Casting: Jay Binder Casting, 321 W. 44th St., Ste. 606, NYC 10036. Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, 236 W. 45th St., NYC. Opened Oct. 5, 2006. Last EPA: Sept. 7. Last Equity principal dancer call: Jan. 9, 2006. Last Equity chorus call: Aug. 2. Last open call: Nov. 20, 2006.
The Color Purple, a musical based on the novel by Alice Walker. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Broadway Theatre, 1681 Broadway, NYC. Opened Dec. 1, 2005. Last EPA: Nov. 20. Last Equity chorus call for singers: July 10. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: July 19. Last open call for singers: Nov. 28, 2006. Last open call for male dancers: May 15.
Curtains, a musical murder mystery by John Kander, the late Fred Ebb, Rupert Holmes, and the late Peter Stone. Casting: Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Al Hirschfeld Theatre, 302 W. 45th St., NYC. Opened March 22. Last EPAs: Oct. 5 and 7, 2006. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 27. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 24.
The Drowsy Chaperone, a comedy about a fictional 1928 musical. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Marquis Theatre, 1535 Broadway, NYC. Opened May 1, 2006. Last EPA: April 19. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Oct. 31. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Oct. 26.
The Farnsworth Invention, a new play by Aaron Sorkin about the invention of television. Des McAnuff directs. Hank Azaria and Jimmi Simpson play lead roles. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Music Box Theatre, 239 W. 45th St., NYC. Opening TBA; delayed from Nov. 14 due to the stagehands strike. Last EPAs: July 5, 6, and 9.
Grease, a revival of the 1972 musical set in the 1950s. Casting: Jay Binder Casting, 321 W. 44th St., Ste. 606, NYC 10036. Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 W. 47th St., NYC. Opened Aug. 19. The leads were cast via an NBC reality show. Last EPA: March 20. Last Equity chorus calls for singers: Sept. 25 and 26, 2006. Last Equity chorus calls for dancers: Sept. 28 and 29, 2006.
Hairspray, a musical based on the 1988 John Waters film. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Neil Simon Theatre, 250 W. 52nd St., NYC. Opened Aug. 15, 2002. Last EPA: Aug. 22. Last Equity chorus call for singers: June 5. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Dec. 14, 2006.
Is He Dead?, an unproduced 1898 play by Mark Twain, adapted by David Ives, about an artist faking his own death to increase the value of his paintings. Norbert Leo Butz stars. Michael Blakemore directs. Casting: Jay Binder Casting, 321 W. 44th St., Ste. 606, NYC 10036. Lyceum Theatre, 149 W. 45th St., NYC. Opening TBA; delayed from Nov. 29 due to the stagehands strike. Last EPAs: April 16, 17, and 18.
*Jersey Boys, a musical featuring the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. August Wilson Theatre, 245 W. 52nd St., NYC. Opened Nov. 6, 2005. Last EPA: June 6. Last open call for principals: May 18, 2006. Upcoming Equity chorus call for singers: Dec. 14. Upcoming Equity chorus call for dancers: Dec. 13.
Legally Blonde, a musical version of the 2001 film comedy. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Palace Theatre, 1564 Broadway, NYC. Opened April 29. Last EPA: June 8, 2006. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 7. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 6.
The Lion King, a musical based on the 1994 animated film. Casting: Jay Binder Casting, 321 W. 44th St., Ste. 606, NYC 10036. Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., NYC. Opened Nov. 13, 1997. Last EPA: June 19. Last open call for kids: Feb. 10. Last Equity chorus call for singers: July 24. Last Equity chorus calls for dancers: July 16 and 17.
The Little Mermaid, a musical based on the 1989 Disney animated film. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Now in previews at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 W. 46th St., NYC. Opening TBA; delayed from Dec. 6 due to the stagehands strike. Last EPA: June 19. Last Equity chorus calls for singers: Oct. 10 and 12, 2006. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Oct. 16, 2006.
Mamma Mia!, a musical featuring the songs of ABBA. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway, NYC. Opened Oct. 18, 2001. Last EPA: July 11. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Nov. 6. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Nov. 9.
Mary Poppins, a musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the 1964 Walt Disney film. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 W. 42nd St., NYC. Opened Nov. 16, 2006. Last EPA: Sept. 10. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 17. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 10. Last open call for kids: April 1, 2006. Last open call for dancers: April 6, 2006.
Monty Python's Spamalot, a musical based on the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Shubert Theatre, 225 W. 44th St., NYC. Opened March 17, 2005. Last EPA for Broadway and touring productions: Aug. 30. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Sept. 27. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Nov. 9.
The Phantom of the Opera, a musical based on the Gaston Leroux novel. The longest-running show in Broadway history. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Majestic Theatre, 247 W. 44th St., NYC. Opened Jan. 26, 1988. Last EPA: Aug. 9. Last Equity chorus call for singers: May 31. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Aug. 7.
Rent, a rock musical suggested by Puccini's La Bohème. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Nederlander Theatre, 208 W. 41st St., NYC. Opened April 29, 1996. Last EPA: Oct. 17. Last open call for singers: Nov. 28, 2005. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Aug. 21.
*Spring Awakening, a rock musical based on Frank Wedekind's 1891 expressionist drama. Casting: Jim Carnahan and Carrie Gardner, Jim Carnahan Casting, 231 W. 39th St., Ste. 1200, NYC 10018. Eugene O'Neill Theatre, 230 W. 49th St., NYC. Opened Dec. 10, 2006. Upcoming EPA: Dec. 4. Last EPA for adult roles in the national tour: Aug. 24. Last EPA for teen roles in the national tour: Aug. 16. Last Equity chorus call for singers: Nov. 1. Last open call for singers: April 29. Last chorus call for singers for the national tour: Sept. 6.
Wicked, a musical based on the novel by Gregory Maguire. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. George Gershwin Theatre, 222 W. 51st St., NYC. Opened Oct. 30, 2003. Last EPA for Broadway: Aug. 30, 2006. Last EPA for the national tour: Aug. 31. Last open call for dancers: May 8. Last open chorus call for dancers: March 21, 2006. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Nov. 26. Last Equity chorus call for singers: April 12.
Young Frankenstein, a musical version by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan of Brooks' 1974 film comedy. Directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Hilton Theatre, 213 W. 42nd St., NYC. Opened Nov. 8. Last Equity chorus calls for singers: Feb. 8 and 9. Last Equity chorus calls for dancers: Feb. 19 and 20.
*Xanadu, a musical based on the 1980 film, with a book by Douglas Carter Beane. The score features songs from the film and hits by Electric Light Orchestra. Casting: Cindy Tolan Casting, 145 Sixth Ave., 7th fl., NYC 10013. Helen Hayes Theatre, 240 W. 44th St., NYC. Opened July 10. Last EPA: Feb. 18. Upcoming Equity chorus call for singers: Dec. 5. Last Equity chorus call for dancers: Nov. 20.
Note: August: Osage County, Cymbeline, The Homecoming, The Seafarer (all in previews), Cyrano de Bergerac, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, Pygmalion, The Ritz, and Rock 'n' Roll are limited runs. Les Misérables closes Jan. 8, 2008 (the Equity chorus call on Nov. 16 has been canceled). The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee closes Jan. 20, 2008. There is no further casting scheduled for these shows.
Broadway: Workshops, In Development, Etc.
9 to 5, a musical version of the 1980 film comedy about put-upon female office workers and their male-chauvinist boss. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Dolly Parton, who starred in the film, is writing the score. Patricia Resnick, co-author of the original screenplay, is penning the book. Joe Mantello is directing. A production starring Allison Janney, Megan Hilty, Stephanie J. Block, and Marc Kudisch will play the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles Sept. 21-Oct. 19, 2008.
13, a musical about a group of 13-year-olds at an Indiana middle school. Jason Robert Brown wrote the score and Dan Elish the book. A production ran at Los Angeles' Mark Taper Forum earlier this year. According to Bloomberg.com, producers are planning a Broadway production in early 2008.
The Addams Family, a musical based on the cartoons of Charles Addams, with book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice (Jersey Boys) and score by Andrew Lippa (The Wild Party). Phelim McDermott and Julian Crouch (Shockheaded Peter) are scheduled to direct and design. Target opening: 2009-10 season.
The Basic Training of Pavlo Hummel, a revival of David Rabe's 1971 play about the Vietnam War. Fox News has reported that Leonardo DiCaprio is interested in starring but that the production depends on his schedule.
Berry Gordy Project, a musical based on the life of the Motown mogul. The New York Post reports that the show is in development and will employ Motown hits for the score.
The Boy Who Heard the Music, a musical by Pete Townshend of the Who, about a rock star recalling the formation of his band. A staging was presented at the Powerhouse Theater in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., on July 13 and 14.
Bricktop Project, a new musical based on the life of Ada "Bricktop" Smith, a café owner and singer in the 1920s. Chuck Seffan is writing the lyrics and Ron Abel the music. Fantasia Barrino has been mentioned for the lead.
Cabaret, a revival of Roundabout Theatre Company's 1996 production, to be presented at the Henry Miller Theatre during the 2007-08 season.
Catch Me If You Can, a musical based on the 2002 film about a real-life con man, with book by Terrence McNally, music by Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. A reading was held recently in New York. Last EPA: May 10.
Columbo Takes the Rap, a new play by William Link based on the TV detective created by Link and the late Richard Levinson. The play was a hit at the International Mystery Writers Festival in Owensboro, Ky., in June. Producer Zev Buffman is planning a national tour before a Broadway engagement in 2008.
Dancin', a revival of Bob Fosse's 1978 dance revue. Graciela Daniele directs and Ann Reinking is artistic consultant. Plans are for a spring 2009 Broadway opening after a run in Toronto.
Designing Women, a play based on the hit TV series. Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, who created the show, is reportedly writing a stage version. Producers Anita Waxman and Elizabeth Williams are said to be interested in producing the play on Broadway.
Dreamgirls, a revival of the 1981 musical. The New York Post has reported that the popularity of the recent film version is sparking interest in a new production.
The First Wives Club, a musical based on the 1996 film comedy, featuring a score by pop songwriters Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Brian Holland and a book by Rupert Holmes.
From These Roots, a musical based on Aretha Franklin's autobiography. Open auditions were held in Detroit on May 1, 2, and 3.
Grumpy Old Men, a musical based on the 1993 comedy about a pair of elderly neighbors engaged in a lifelong feud. A reading with Christopher Lloyd, George Hearn, Adrienne Barbeau, Carol Kane, Garrett Morris, and Conrad John Schuck will be held Nov. 1 and 2 in Manhattan. The score is by Neil Berg (music) and Nick Meglin (lyrics); the book is by Dan Remmes.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner, a stage version of the 1967 Oscar-winning film about an interracial couple, adapted by Todd Kreidler from William Rose's screenplay. Kenny Leon will direct. Target opening: fall 2008.
In Masks Outrageous and Austere, an unfinished play by Tennessee Williams about a billionairess. The Daily News has reported that Gore Vidal is completing the script for a Broadway production to be directed by Peter Bogdanovich. The Halcyon Company is producing.
Leap of Faith, a musical version of the 1992 film about a con artist posing as an evangelist, featuring music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, and book by Janus Cercone, author of the original screenplay. Taylor Hackford (Ray, An Officer and a Gentleman) directs. Hugh Jackman played the lead in a workshop presentation. Target opening: 2007-08 season.
Little House on the Prairie, a musical version of the series of books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. Melissa Gilbert (who starred in the TV series based on the books) and Patrick Swayze headlined a workshop presentation directed by Francesca Zambello (The Little Mermaid) on April 16 and 17 in Manhattan. A full production will be mounted in Minneapolis at the Guthrie Theater in summer 2008.
The Man in the White Suit, a musical version of the 1951 film comedy about an inventor who creates an indestructible fabric, by Mark Hollmann (music and lyrics), Greg Kotis (book and lyrics), and David Petrarca (book and direction). Hollmann and Kotis collaborated on Urinetown. Hunter Foster, Jenny Powers, Christian Hoff, and Gregg Edelman participated in a reading on Oct. 20, 2006.
My Man Godfrey, a musical version of the 1936 screwball film comedy, with book by Claudia Shear (Dirty Blonde) and score by Mark Hollmann (Urinetown).
Natural Woman, a new book musical featuring the songs of Carole King and Gerry Goffin. Director Michael Blakemore staged a private reading starring Tom Wopat and Randy Graff.
Nero, a musical by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater (Spring Awakening) about the Roman emperor. A reading starring Euan Morton and Jan Maxwell was recently held at the Public Theater.
The Nutty Professor, a musical version of the 1963 Jerry Lewis film comedy. Target Broadway opening: October 2008.
One Heart at a Time, a musical about George Washington Carver, with a book by Mark St. Germain, music by Louis St. Louis, and lyrics by St. Germain and Thomas W. Jones. Originally targeted for the 2006-07 season. No firm dates.
Pal Joey, a revival of the 1940 musical by Rodgers and Hart. Producer Marc Platt (Wicked) recently announced he would be unable to present the show, but the New York Post has reported that Roundabout Theatre Company may pick it up for spring 2008 at Studio 54. Joe Mantello will direct, and Richard Greenberg is revising John O'Hara's book. Christian Hoff (Jersey Boys) and Stockard Channing are reportedly being considered for the leads.
Porgy and Bess, a new production of the opera by George and Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward, adapted as a musical and directed by Trevor Nunn. Opened Nov. 9, 2006, at London's Savoy Theatre to mostly positive notices. There are plans for a Broadway transfer.
Rocky, a musical version of the 1976 film. Thomas Meehan (Annie, The Producers, Young Frankenstein) is writing the book, and lyricist Lynn Ahrens and composer Stephen Flaherty (Once on This Island, Ragtime, The Glorious Ones) are working on the score.
Shrek, a musical version of the 2001 animated film, with book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire and music by Jeanine Tesori. A six-week workshop will be held in early November. Casting: Tara Rubin Casting, 570 Seventh Ave., Ste. 401, NYC 10018. Last EPA for the workshop: Sept. 6. Last Equity chorus calls for the workshop: Sept. 10 and 17.
Sister Act, a musical version of the 1992 film comedy, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, and book by Cheri and Bill Steinkellner. Closed at the Pasadena Playhouse on Dec. 23, 2006.
Speed-the-Plow, a revival of David Mamet's 1988 play about corruption in Hollywood. The New York Post reports that Jessica Alba, James Gandolfini, and Michael Imperioli are being considered for the leads.
Spider-Man, a musical based on the comic-book superhero. Julie Taymor will direct and collaborate on the book with Glen Berger. The score is by Bono and the Edge of U2. A reading was held in Manhattan on July 12 and 13.
To Die For, a musical based on the Joyce Maynard novel and the 1995 film inspired by a real-life murder case, to be produced by Tara Smith and B. Swibel (Xanadu). No creative team has been announced.
Vanities, a musical based on Jack Heifner's 1976 Off-Broadway play about three cheerleaders growing up in the 1960s and '70s, with a score by David Kirshenbaum and a book by Heifner. A private industry presentation directed by Judith Ivey was held on Sept. 27. Target opening: fall 2008 at a Shubert theatre TBA.
The White House Murder Case, a revival of Jules Feiffer's 1970 political satire. Producer Jeffrey Richards recently held a reading with Alan Alda, Tony Roberts, John Cullum, Penny Fuller, and Michael Stuhlbarg.
Off-Broadway: Current Long-Running Productions
Altar Boyz, a mock concert of a Christian boy band. Casting: Rachel Hoffman, Dave Clemmons Casting, 265 W. 30th St., NYC 10001. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., NYC. Opened March 1, 2005.
Blue Man Group, a performance-art piece with a cast of three. Casting: Blue Man Productions, 599 Broadway, 5th fl., NYC 10012. Astor Place Theatre, 434 Lafayette St., NYC. Opened Nov. 11, 1991.
The Fantasticks, a revival of the 1960 musical by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt. Casting: Telsey + Company, 311 W. 43rd St., 10th fl., NYC 10036. Snapple Theater Center, 210 W. 50th St., NYC. Opened Aug. 23, 2006.
Forbidden Broadway: Rude Awakening, the latest edition of the long-running satire of Broadway. Casting: Forbidden Broadway, 1501 Broadway, Ste. 1712, NYC 10036. 47th Street Theatre, 304 W. 47th St., NYC. Opened Jan. 15, 1982 (original edition). This edition opened Sept. 23, 2007.
I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, a four-character revue. Casting: Stuart Howard and Amy Schecter, Stuart Howard Associates, 207 W. 25th St., Ste. 601, NYC 10001. Westside Theatre, 407 W. 43rd St., NYC. Opened Aug. 1, 1996.
Naked Boys Singing, an all-male revue featuring nudity. Casting: Martian Entertainment, Attn: Casting, 165 W. 46th St., Ste. 1312, NYC 10036. New World Stages, 340 W. 50th St., NYC. Opened July 22, 1999. Last auditions by appointment: April 4, 2006.
Perfect Crime, the longest-running play in Off-Broadway history. Casting: Catherine Russell, 1627 Broadway, NYC 10019. Duffy Theatre, 1627 Broadway, NYC. Opened April 18, 1987. Last call for Equity pictures and résumés: Sept. 27.
Stomp, a percussion performance-art piece. Casting: Vince Liebhart, 70A Greenwich Ave., #102, NYC 10011. Orpheum Theatre, 126 Second Ave., NYC. Opened Feb. 27, 1994.