Children and Teen Auditions This Weekend for Muny Productions

The Muny is looking for talented kids, but talent isn't the only requirement.

"We're looking for kids who look and act like kids," Muny Assistant Marketing Director Larry Pry said.

Auditions for young performers for The Muny's 2011 summer season will be March 5 and 6 at St. Louis University High School's Performing Arts Center, 4970 Oakland Ave.

Auditions for the children's chorus are March 5. Children ages 7 and 8 audition from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Children ages 9 and 10 audition from 10 a.m. to noon. Eleven, 12 and 13-year-olds  audition from 1-3 p.m. Children will be cast primarily in The Little Mermaid, but may be cast in other productions.

Teen auditions (ages 14-18) are from 1-3 p.m. Sunday, March 6. The Muny will be casting teens primarily in the production of Bye Bye Birdie.

Those auditioning do not need a photo or resume, but they do need to prepare eight measures of a song, and provide sheet music. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Those trying out for parts will be taught a dance routine.

Children and teens who are cast in the productions will be notified within two weeks of auditions. Those performers are then eligible to audition for Muny Kids or Muny Teens, who act as Muny ambassadors and appear at special events.

The Muny's website has audition tips about stage presence, music and attire selection, and dance and singing performance.

This summer's schedule at the Muny includes:

• Legally Blonde, June 20-26
• Kiss Me Kate, June 27-July 3
• The Little Mermaid, July 6-14
• Singing' in the Rain, July 18-24
• Little Shop of Horrors, July 25-31
• Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,  Aug. 1-7
• Bye Bye Birdie, Aug. 8-14