The Hobbit

adapted by Greg Banks

Directed by Noah Bremer & Scott Gilbert

DESCRIPTION:

Join Bilbo Baggins in this inventive adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic tale. Swept into a quest with Gandalf and a band of determined dwarves, Bilbo faces trolls, goblins, riddles, and a dragon named Smaug—with bravery he never knew he had. The Hobbit is a thrilling adventure for all ages—and a reminder that even the smallest person can change the course of the future.

PERFORMANCE DATES:

May 8-31 (14 performances)

Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30p
Sundays at 2:00p
PLUS
- Monday, May 18th, 7:30p Pay-What-You-Can
- Saturday, May 23, 2:00p additional matinee (a 2-show day)

Please note that cast and crew are required to participate in strike immediately following the final performance.

REHEARSALS:

STANDARD REHEARSALS will begin March 18 at Theatre in the Round. Weeknight rehearsals will be in the evenings. Saturday and/or Sunday rehearsals will be determined and scheduled depending on cast availability.

5-10 INITIAL TRAINING SESSIONS, to work on music or special skills, will start as early as October 15 and most likely take place on weeekends. The listed dates are possible dates from which the rehearsal schedule will be planned based on performers' availability.

Whenever possible actors will be scheduled on an as needed basis.

REHEARSAL PROCESS & USE OF ENSEMBLE

The creation process will be creative, collaborative, and include performer's unique talents. For the Core Ensemble (all playing multiple roles), we encourage performers who possess dance, circus, or strong physical theatre skills to audition. The Musical Ensemble will utilize a wide range of instruments and be incorporated into the show as characters when appropriate. They will be on stage creating the musical soundscape of the show as well as the official "musical numbers." We will also be working with the Core Ensemble to utilize their musical ablity.

SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT MUSIC ENSEMBLE: Musicians must be adept at musical improvisation, playing from chord sheets, and playing by ear in order to support the creation of the soundscape and musical numbers along with the composer. Sheet music will not be provided. At least two of the musicians will be required to sing.

AUDITION DATES:

Auditions will be held at Theatre in the Round, 245 Cedar Ave S. Doors open 30 minutes before the start time each day. People will be seen in the order they arrive.

Sunday, Oct 5, 8-10p --- priority to Music Ensemble auditioners
Monday, Oct 6, 7-10p
Tuesday, Oct 7, 7-10p

AUDITION FORMAT:

Those Auditioning for CORE Ensemble and/or Bilbo: Choose between scenes 1, 2, 3, or 4 from the provided sides.
Each auditioner should perform ALL characters in the scene. This will allow the creation of multiple unique physical and vocal characters and for us to see how you navigate between multiple roles. It's preferred that you memorize so you can fully embody the characters physically, but reading from the page is also acceptable.
Be prepared to sing one of the selections from the "songs" page. The tune is less important than the vocal quality and the making of bold choices and committing to them.
Those Auditioning for MUSIC Ensemble:Select between side 5 or 6. If you are able, please bring one of your chosen instruments. Come prepared to sing the song on your chosen side. The tune is less important than the voical quality. You can accompany yourself with your chosen instrument if you wish. If you don't feel comfortable singing, you can play a musical interpretation of the song. The composer will be available to work with you and may give you some direction.
If you are unable to bring your chosen instrument, you will be given the option to send a video of yourself playing that instrument to showcase your musical ability.
If you would like to be considered for either Core or Music ensemble: audition with the Core ensemble, but indicate your interest in music ensemble roles on the audition form AND write in what instrument(s) you play in the Special Skills.

Scenes and songs are available in advance: https://www.theatreintheround.org/home/get-involved/auditions/.

Please note that all roles at Theatre in the Round are volunteer; however, as of the 2024-2025 season all actors will be offered a $100 honorarium and be provided a new professional headshot, with rights to use digitally or print.

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS:

Roles are open to actors of all identities – racial, ethnic, sexual, gender – and no roles assume the presence or absence of disability. The ensemble will require creative movement which will be created around the needs and abilities of the individual performers.

Bilbo

4 CORE Ensemble Members - play multiple charactes

3 MUSIC Ensemble Members - create and perform a live soundscape; also play bit roles

PLEASE NOTE: actors/performers/musicians with experience with dance, circus, physical theater, musical, and other special skills are highly encouraged to audition