The upcoming DreamWorks Animation and Neal Street Prods. Ltd. Broadway production of Shrek is trolling the swamp to find two actors to play Shrek and Donkey. The creative team, led by producers Sam Mendes and Caro Newling, is seeking male performers in their 20s or 30s, from all cultural backgrounds, to bring the iconic animated characters to the stage. A two-week reading is being planned for this summer (July 23-August 3) in New York, followed by a Broadway opening in 2008.
For Shrek, they’re looking for someone with a powerful presence and strength with true rock or R&B vocals, preferably a baritone. Donkey hopefuls should have a contemporary, urban edge and good comic timing. Performers with backgrounds in slam poetry, comedy, and hip hop are preferred.
Anyone can audition for these role by making a video recording of themselves singing one song (no lip-syncing). The video must be copied to a DVD clearly labeled with a name and contact information. The submission packet must also include a headshot or recent photograph and a resume or list of background experience complete with current contact information (address, phone number and e-mail). All three items are to be mailed by Friday, May 18 to:
DreamWorks Animation
I Want To Be Shrek
PO Box 2693
New York, NY 10108
Featuring music by Jeanine Tesori, and book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek on Broadway is being directed by Jason Moore. The show is based on the children’s book by William Steig and DreamWorks Animation’s hugely successful feature films. The series will officially become a trilogy when Shrek the Third arrives in theaters on May 18. For information updates on the Broadway auditions, go to http://iwanttobeshrek.com.
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