In Surrey, auditions start Feb. 18 for a summer production of “The SpongeBob Musical,” based on the hit cartoon series.
Characters of the sub-marine habitat known as Bikini Bottom will come alive at Surrey Arts Centre’s Main Stage this June and July.
Fraser Valley Musical Theatre (FVMT) is bringing the show to the stage, and there’s already plenty of interest.
“Auditions are coming up in February but all the in-person slots are already full,” noted Mike Balser, president of the theatre company.
“We had a really good response to the audition call. Video auditions are still being accepted, at least for now. Anyone interested can email fvgssproducer@gmail.com if they would like more details.”
Sought are singers and dancers of all genders, ages and backgrounds – close to 30 of them to become SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star, Sandy Cheeks, Squidward Tentacles and other characters.
Conceived by Tina Landau and based on Stephen Hillenburg’s series, the award-winning 2016 musical charts the success of SpongeBob, who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway.
When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must save the fate of their undersea world, says a show summary on Concord Theatrical’s website, where licenses are granted to stage the show.
“With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!”
The musical features songs by David Bowie, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alex Ebert of Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend and several other notable pop/rock songwriters.
FVMT, formerly Fraser Valley Gilbert and Sullivan Society, has been producting shows in Surrey for more than 30 years.
“The literal show is already on the figurative road,” Balser said of the “SpongeBob” show. “Our creative team has been hard at work for a while getting scores and musical requirements straightened out, designing dances and staging, all part of the challenge of bringing a cartoon to life.
“Costumes, props and sets are being designed and approved before construction begins,” Balser added. “Everyone is very excited to get to the next stage, the casting and rehearsing, that will start in just a few weeks. Then it’s work through the spring till we get to the actual stage in Bear Creek Park this summer.
“After the success of ‘The Addams Family’ last summer, FVMT is looking forward to giving Surrey audiences another great evening of music and fun.”
Show tickets aren’t sold yet on tickets.surrey.ca, but keep on eye on the website for updates.
Auditions for “The SpongeBob Musical” are Feb. 18 and 20 at Valley View Funeral Home in Surrey, then Feb. 22 at St. Cuthberts Anglican Church in North Delta. More info is found on facebook.com/FVMTS.