Casting

Nick Piazza is focused on learning the craft of "real" acting. Cast a good singer and actor who has maturity and wisdom on his side.

Serena Katz loves the life of an artist but is equally as interested in boys, specifically Nick. Serena should have a beautiful voice and a solid handle on her acting skills.

Joe (José) Vegas is the class clown who loves performing on and offstage. Joe has just a few solo lines, so casting an actor who is funny and over the top is more important than finding someone with brilliant singing skills.

Tyrone Jackson has talent, but he wants to use it his own way rather than conform to the school's rules. He is constantly switching between his tough-guy persona and a young man trying to woo Iris. Tyrone is a dancer with no vocal solos, so cast an actor who is a great mover that also has solid acting skills.

Carmen Diaz believes she is ready for stardom, and nothing is going to stop her. This is the role to cast your true triple threat - great actor, great singer and great dancer.

Iris Kelly pretends she is wealthy and high-class but drops these pretenses once she feels comfortable. Iris should be one of your strongest dancers who can also act.

Mabel Washington enjoys performing as much as she hates dieting. Mabel eventually learns to be happy with herself and her body, but not before fully experiencing the pains of being a dancer. When casting Mabel, try not to cast an especially skinny girl; however she does not need to be overweight either. Simply cast a good singer with soul who is comfortable talking about her weight onstage.

Schlomo Metzenbaum is a really likable guy who tries to get along with everyone. Cast a solid actor and a good singer. It is a bonus plus if Schlomo is able to play the piano.

Grace (Lambchops) Lamb is a drummer with a lively personality. This featured role is great for a young actress who isn't afraid to take a few risks.

Goodman (Goody) King is the third band member. This role is perfect for a young student just learning to be confident onstage.

Miss Esther Sherman (English Teacher) is a powerful, strong woman who firmly believes academic subjects are the core of a solid education. Cast a mature actress with a strong speaking and singing voice.

Ms. Greta Bell (Dance Teacher) is a passionate teacher who is not afraid to push her students to reach their full artistic potential. Cast a natural leader who is both a great singer and actor.

Mr. Myers (Acting Teacher) is perhaps the most relaxed of the teachers, but he still demands full commitment from the students. This non-singing role is a good acting challenge for either a male or female student with good rhythm.

Mr. Sheinkopf (Music Teacher) adds a bit of comic relief to the show but still doesn't let up when there is work to be done. Mr. Sheinkopf doesn't sing, but he does lead the most difficult section of "Hard Work." Cast an actor, male or female, with a solid sense of rhythm.

Acting Ensemble are male and female students who are in Mr. Myer's scenes and all ensemble numbers. They should be good singers, actors and movers.

Music Ensemble are kids in all music scenes and ensemble numbers. Cast singers and actors. It would be a plus if a few of them can play a musical instrument, which you could highlight during the show.

Dance Ensemble kids have the hardest ensemble role in the show, so cast dancers who can sing. They don't have to be perfect ballerinas, but they will need to look comfortable in a dance class at a performing arts school.