The Dallas Opera is casting supernumeraries in an open call Jan. 11. Supernumeraries are non-singing players in opera, and it’s a sweet gig if you can get it.
Earlier this year, we interviewed an Oak Cliff husband and wife, Cathy Ann Fears and Mark Blaquiere, who were supernumeraries in “Don Pasquale”. The story about them contains a few tips.
The audition announcement is on Facebook. Here’s what it says:
Location TBD
The time has arrived to recruit new friends to join us as supernumeraries for The Dallas Opera’s exciting 2010-2011 season in the new Winspear Opera House! There will be an open casting call for new supers Tuesday January 11, 2011 from 7:00-9:00p. We are looking for men, women and children of all ages for our upcoming productions of Romeo & Juliet, Rigoletto and Boris Godunov. For more information on performance schedules go to dallasopera.org.
Supernumeraries, otherwise known as ‘Supers’, play a vital role in the success of operas. These individuals do not have to speak or sing, but have a great attitude and a love or desire to be on the stage. They play servants, priests, guards, soldiers, maids, villagers, etc. to help fill the stage for productions. Rehearsals and performances take place in the evening, with occasional daytime rehearsals on the weekends and Sunday matinees.
There is minimal pay, and each super is entitled to 2 free tickets to the final dress rehearsal.
For more information about the casting call please contact Tai Renfrow (production assistant) through e-mail at tai.renfrow@dallasopera.org. She will be in touch early January to answer your questions. Returning supers need not inquire.
