CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG Auditions Call For 6 Local Children

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, a production coming to PPAC March 19 - 22, held auditions on October 25, 2008 to find six local children to appear in the chorus of the show for its Providence run. The audition included learning a dance from the show - taught on-site - in addition to each child singing a song of their choice; more than 80 talented children turned out for the audition, which took place at PPAC. The show's producers have selected Andrew Purdy, of Franklin, MA; Eric Halvarson, of Cranston; Rebekah Philip, of Rehoboth, MA; Carolina King and Virginia King, of Clayville; and Fifer Horwitz of Tiverton as the regulars, and Daniel Perkins, of Bellingham, MA and Maddie Crump, of Norfolk, MA as the boy and girl alternates.

The children all had their own opinions about the audition and selection process. Carolina King, who was "kind of nervous" at the audition, was "really excited to get it!" Her sister Virginia agreed about being excited, but said of the audition, "I liked it! I liked that we got water before we sang."

The thrill of being selected for the Providence engagement of a National tour is evident. "I can't wait to be a part of a real professional show!" said Daniel Perkins. The opportunity to work with a professional cast is not lost on the children, either. Maddie Crump said, "I'm thrilled to be one of the alternates for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. This should be an amazing experience!"

Some of the children are new to auditioning, but none of the children are strangers to performing off the stage in their daily lives. "I can't wait until March," said Fifer Horwitz, whose previous performing experience included busking (singing in the street). Rebekah Philip said, "I'm really excited! My math teacher calls me ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' now."

The children are all getting ready for opening night, March 19th, which is also Kids' Night on Broadway. Kids' Night on Broadway is a special event where kids 18 and under can attend the March 19th performance of CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG for FREE when accompanied by an adult who purchases a full-priced ticket. There will be some extra "truly scrumptious" treats and surprises for the attendees of this special night, including a special pre-show event which will be announced soon. Please visit www.ppacri.org for updates on March 19th's KIDS' NIGHT ON BROADWAY, or call the Box Office at (401) 421-ARTS for ticketing information.

The CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG local children are looking forward to the performances, and some even to the bright lights beyond that. "Every time I see a show at PPAC, I wish that I am up on that stage. Finally, I will be!" said Andrew Purdy, adding, "I'm one step closer to Broadway."

Eric Halvarson added, "Come and see the show - I am sure it will be awesome!"

Based on the timeless novel by Ian Fleming, author/creator of the James Bond franchise, the production features the music and lyrics by the legendary Sherman brothers, composers of Mary Poppins. The National tour also features an original script and fresh adaptation directed by Ray Roderick. CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG boasts a beloved score, including memorable classics such as "Truly Scrumptious," "Toot Sweets," "Hushabye Mountain" and the Oscarâ-nominated title song, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang."

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG performance times are Thursday, March 19th at 7:30P (which is also Kids' Night on Broadway), Friday, March 20th at 8P, Saturday, March 21st at 2P & 8P, and Sunday, March 22nd at 1P & 6:30P. Tickets for CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG are $60, $55, $53, $48, $43, $38, and $33; all ticket prices include a $3 per ticket restoration charge. Tickets for all shows can be purchased at PPAC's Box Office window at 220 Weybosset Street in downtown Providence, or by calling (401) 421-ARTS, Monday - Friday from 10A - 5P and Saturdays from 10A - 2P; or visit www.ppacri.org to purchase tickets any time. Discounted admission is available for groups of 20 or more; for more information, email Paul Hiatt at phiatt@ppacri.org or call (401) 574-3162.

The Providence Performing Arts Center is a historic theatre building, opened in October 1928 and now celebrating its 80th Anniversary. It was originally a Loew's movie palace and over the years, it has had various name changes until it was renamed the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) in 1982. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, PPAC currently presents top-flight touring Broadway productions, family shows, concerts, and more. Log on to www.ppacri.org for more information about the 2008/2009 season.