'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' to hold local auditions

"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," the most fantasmagorical Broadway musical in the history of everything, is searching for six children in the Fort Myers area to make their stage debut at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall on Nov. 15 for a three-performance engagement.

Based on the novel by Ian Fleming, author/ creator of the James Bond franchise, the production features the music and lyrics by the Sherman brothers, composers of "Mary Poppins." The national tour also features an original script and fresh adaptation directed by Ray Roderick.

Auditions will be held at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Parkway S.W. in Fort Myers, beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27. Auditioning children are to arrive no later than 7:30 a.m., accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please call Debra Parfit at (239) 489-3033, ext. 3100, by Sept. 25 to register. Each child will be asked to sing a cappella 16 bars from

one up-tempo song of

choice. Children should be prepared to learn and execute simple choreography as part of the audition process. No decisions will be announced during the auditions.

Six children will be selected for the ensemble, and they will appear as orphans in Act 2 of

every performance.

Two alternates will also be chosen. Approximate ages should be between 8 and 12 years old — and have the appearance of children, not young adults. Professional experience and headshots are not required.

The local children cast in the production and their parents or guardians will be provided rehearsal and performance information. The children will not receive any compensation, however this is a wonderful opportunity for children from Fort Myers to perform onstage with professional actors without having to ever leave town.

"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" will play at 2 and 8 p.m. on Nov. 15 and at 1 p.m. on Nov. 16. Tickets range from $35-$55 and go on sale at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Mann Hall box office. Call (239) 481-4849 or visit www.bbmannpah. com.

If you go

>>What: Local auditions for six children for "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang"

>>When: Saturday, Sept. 27 beginning at 8 a.m.

>>Where: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Parkway

>>Information: Call Debra Parfit at (239) 489- 3033, ext. 3100, by Sept. 25 to register