Theater group forming

HOPE – A theater group to serve the needs of the Southwest Arkansas communities in various stage disciplines is forming and all interested residents are invited to check on opportunities to explore your talents.

George S. Smith, co-organizer and former executive director of the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council, said, “Do you sing, dance, enjoy being in the spotlight on a stage, working backstage or just just want to assist in promoting the arts?

Are you artistic and enjoy meeting with like-minded people?”

The second organizational meeting and audition of the group will be held at 6 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 10, at the McLarty Room at Hope’s Amtrak Depot.

Smith said the new group is reaching out to all residents and the group is determined to include a diverse performance featuring all actors and singers that reflect the  demographics of the area. “The performing arts do not recognize color of any performer … only the love of the art they bring to the stage.”

The first performance, Smith said, will be in March 2020 and is slated to be a dinner with entertainment, followed buy a four-act musical revue. “This first performance,” he said, “will be a showcase of the outstanding voices in this area.” The troupe will be working on four distinct areas of musicology – “music that defined the beginning of the rock and roll era, gospel, Broadway standards and a historical visit to songs sacred to the history of the United States.”

Smith said soloist and group singers are need, including five-six “teenagers” – girls and boys — for a variety of ‘50s-’60s hits; children ages 5-15 for Broadway numbers from “Oliver” and “Sound of Music”; singers for specialty numbers – gospel and patriotic songs; singers whose voices can mimic well-know singers.” Additionally, other acts are being considered for the dinner entertainment.

Two additional auditions are tentatively scheduled to accommodate tho0se interested in case of a conflict. Contact George S. Smith,  gsid143@gmail.com or texting 501-259-8545 for individual email information.