Anita Loos' "GIGI" - Ivy Lane Players

AUDITIONS FOR ANITA LOOS' "GIGI" NON-PAY

SYNOPSIS

Gigi, a colorful and sophisticated tale with a sentimental heart, takes place in Belle Epoque Paris 1901 when elegant, cultured courtesans of some standing served as public mistresses to wealthy men. There was a wide class divide and while women could not expect to marry above their station, the courtesan had a freedom that was unparalleled. She was able to cross the class boundaries and could rub shoulders with royalty and the haute monde, although not expect to be accepted into the homes of polite society.

Gigi, a bright, appealing teen, is being raised by her loving grandmother, Madame Alvarez while her mother works in the Opera Comique. The grandmother’s sister, Alicia, formerly a courtesan with a string of wealthy lovers in her past, gives Gigi lessons in how to become a successful courtesan.

Gigi finds these lessons tedious and would rather skip class and play cards with Gaston Lachailles, an indolent and wealthy visitor to her humble home. Despite his wealth, Gaston is only truly happy with Mme. Alvarez and her granddaughter. As Gigi blossoms into a beautiful young woman, both she and Gaston confront the reality of their feelings for each other. Gigi, fighting for her happiness, will have to convince her loved ones to look beyond their family history of the usual non-marital business arrangement. The play is scandalous and sweet, a romantic story of love, and a look at the business realities of life.

Gilberte ("Gigi") -- late teens

Andree-- mother of teenager (Comedic role. Andree sings a cappella)

Inez Alvarez-- Andree's mother and Gig's grandmother

Mme. de St. Elphlam ("Aunt Alicia") -- grandmother's sister

Sidonie -- twenty-five-plus (Comic role. Mme. Alvarez's maid of all work)

Gaston Lachaille -- late twenties to early forties (wealthy bon vivant)

Victor -- fifties to seventy (Mme. Elphlam's butler. He has been with her for 40 years and "has never failed her")

The public auditions are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday June 20 and Monday, June 24 (and, if necessary, possibly on Friday, June 28th) at the Levittown Public Library, 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown NY.

Show dates are two (2) matinees on November 2nd and 3rd.
Salary: none