KZMU will hold auditions for an original radio play to be performed at Star Hall on Feb. 17-18, 2018. The musical, titled “Beautiful Radiant Things,” will also be aired on KZMU, 90.1 and 106.7 FM, and online at kzmu.org.
The auditions will be held on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 10 a.m. and Sunday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. at the KZMU studios, 1734 Rocky Road. There are seven singing roles for women. Come prepared to sing a cappella or with your own accompaniment. You will also be asked to read a scene. Rehearsals will take place in January and February, with a reading before the end of the year.
“Beautiful Radiant Things” tells the story of the anarchist Emma Goldman’s 50th birthday in prison, where she served time for speaking out against the draft during World War I. Other characters include the political socialist Kate Richards O’Hare, also imprisoned for anti-conscription activities, along with women accused of murder, drug dealing, prostitution, counterfeiting and theft.
Written by KZMU General Manager Marty Durlin, the play is based on historical figures and real events. Set in the Missouri State Penitentiary for Women in 1919, “Beautiful Radiant Things” resonates with current times. Although it deals with serious issues, the play has frequent moments of humor and absurdity.
Goldman was born in Lithuania in 1869 and came to the U.S. at the age of 16. She became an anarchist when she moved to New York City at 20. The play’s title comes from a Goldman quote: “I want freedom, the right to self-expression, everybody’s right to beautiful, radiant things.” She is also credited with saying, “I don’t want to be in your revolution if I can’t dance.” Goldman was deported in 1920 after her release from prison. She died in Canada in 1940.
“Beautiful Radiant Things” features seven singing roles for women
For more information, contact Marty Durlin at 435-259-8824.
