Auditions for GABRIEL, a new musical by Ron Klipp

directed by Foster Solomon, music direction by Billy Dye

 

GABRIEL is based on the true and little-known Richmond, VA story about the events of the summer of 1800 and the characters involved in a state-wide plot by enslaved Virginians to end slavery. The conspiracy was led by a twenty-four year old enslaved, literate blacksmith named Gabriel who lived on a plantation just outside of Richmond. The thwarted revolt led to the execution of Gabriel and other captured conspirators. 

 

THE ENSLAVED / African Americans

GABRIEL [Baritone] – 24, a blacksmith, leader of the uprising; intelligent, dynamic, charismatic, quick, tough, brave

NANNY  [Mezzo-Soprano] – 19, becomes Gabriel’s wife; energetic, intelligent,  guarded, protective, fierce, tender

DELIA [Alto] – 15, Nanny’s sister, raped and later sold by slave owner Thomas Henry Prosser; playful, sweet, tender, lost

MARTIN / INMATE [Bass] – mid-30’s, Gabriel’s older brother; spiritual, reflective, measured, paternal, sage-like

BEN / BILLY [Tenor] – mid to late teens, ends up betraying fellow slaves; fun-loving, youthful, a people-pleaser, a worrier

Jack DITCHER [Baritone] – 28, inspires Gabriel, becomes his friend; Impetuous, hot-tempered, winsome, powerful, bitter

 

WHITES

Thomas Henry PROSSER [Tenor/Baritone] – 24, Gabriel’s enslaver; uncertain, boastful, insecure, smart, a mean streak, ingratiating, spiteful, lustful

LUCY Hylton [Mezzo-Soprano, belt] – 19, Prosser’s well-to-do fiancé; outwardly demure and proper, aristocratic, inwardly threatened, resentful

JUDGE Hylton / James MONROE / SOLDIER’S VOICE (OS) [Baritone] –40’s

Absalom JOHNSON / Capt. Richardson TAYLOR / GUARD – [Baritone] –30’s

 

When: Sat, Dec 14; 12n-4pm

Where: Firehouse Theatre, 1609 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220

What: Please prepare 32 bars of a song that best shows off your vocal ability (folk, pop, gospel encouraged but not necessary). Bring an instrumental track or piano sheet music in the correct key. Accompanist will be provided. You will also be asked to read sides from the libretto that will be provided at the audition.

How: please email with your name, phone #, what role(s) you’re auditioning for, and your preferred time to audition. We’ll confirm your audition with an email.

 

The production will happen in January, 2021 but there will be readings, workshops, and rehearsals before the full production. All roles are paid.