Open Auditions Held for Miranda Replacement on December 16

The hit musical, IN THE HEIGHTS is having an open call for the role of Usnavi, currently played by the show's creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda. 

The casting breakdown calls for "Latino male, early to mid 20s, Our hip-hop narrator. Young, energetic bodega owner who dreams of making enough to go back home to Dominican Republic. He puts a brave face on his genuine financial trouble--MUST be able to rap well. Could be someone from the comedy/improv world.

Prepare a short rap to perform. You may also sing if you wish, but singing is not a requirement for this audition. An accompanist will be provided. You may prepare material from the show. Copies of "In The Heights" (Unsavi's opening section) will be available at the audition.

Bring an updated picture and resume stapled together."

Auditions are being held, 11 AM - 5 PM at Telsey + Company, 315 West 43rd Street, 10th Floor New York City on December 16, 2008.

IN THE HEIGHTS is the winner of four 2008 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Lin-Manuel Miranda won the 2008 Tony for Best Music and Lyrics, Andy Blankenbuehler won the 2008 Tony for Best Choreography, and Alex Lacamoire and Bill Sherman won the 2008 Tony Award for Best Orchestrations. IN THE HEIGHTS began previews on Broadway Thursday, February 14, 2008, after a six-month award-winning 2007 Off-Broadway run. The musical opened on Broadway to critical acclaim Sunday, March 9, 2008, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street). IN THE HEIGHTS stars Andréa Burns, Janet Dacal, Tony Award nominee Robin De Jesús, Carlos Gomez, Mandy Gonzalez, Marcy Harriell, Christopher Jackson, Priscilla Lopez, Tony Award nominee Olga Merediz, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Seth Stewart leading a cast of 27.

IN THE HEIGHTS is about a vibrant and tight-knit community at the top of the island of Manhattan. The music pulses with the hopes and dreams of three generations as they struggle to forge an identity in a neighborhood on the brink of transition.

IN THE HEIGHTS will play the following holiday performances at the Richard Rodgers Theatre (226 West 46th Street). There will be added performances at 8pm on Monday December 22, and Monday December 29, and at 2pm on Friday November 28, and Tuesday December 30. There will be no performances on Thursday, November 27, Thursday, December 25 and Thursday, January 1.

Tickets for IN THE HEIGHTS range from $41.50 to $121.50, and can be purchased at the Richard Rodgers Box Office or at www.ticketmaster.com. The regular playing schedule for IN THE HEIGHTS is as follows: Tuesdays and certain Sundays at 7pm, Wednesdays at 2pm and/or 8pm, Thursdays - Saturdays at 8pm, with matinees Saturdays and certain Sundays at 2pm.