Auditions set for City of Hope Spectacular
Applications are now available for anyone interested in performing in the 51st annual City of Hope Spectacular, set for 7 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Frank “Buck” Shaffer Theater inside the Porterville Memorial Auditorium.
‘Something Old, Something New’ is the name of this year’s City of Hope Spectacular — Porterville’s 51st consecutive variety show that raises money for City of Hope.
Based on the Ed Sullivan Show — a fast-paced, variety show featuring singers, dancers and other performers — the Spectacular was started by the late Frank “Buck” Shaffer in 1963 as an outlet to allow performers of all ages an opportunity to perform on a big stage in front of a large audience
Auditions are set for Tuesday, will all acts fully costumed and performance-ready at the audition, said show producer Dick Eckhoff.
Performers are also encouraged to wear stage makeup, as stage lighting and distance from the audience makes it difficult to see faces, he said.
“Auditions are not a talent contest but an indication of ability to fit into the traditional format of the City of Hope Spectacular — a fast-moving, entertaining variety show,” Eckhoff said.
“All members must be present at the audition and at all rehearsals, unless prior approval is granted by the show producer. Acts may not be modified after the audition, including costume or personnel changes.”
Individuals may only audition for one solo or small group act, but may also audition in an ensemble act. If more than one solo or small group act is auditioned, only one will be selected.
In addition, each act must also provide its own accompaniment. A piano will be on stage, and if a recording is used, it must be presented clearly titled and properly cued to the sound booth.
Acts should not exceed three minutes in length, including lead-ins, intros and chasers.
Longer acts are subject to rejection.
The auditions will be scheduled, in the order in which the applications are received, with elementary-age children auditioning at 6 p.m., high school students at 7 p.m., and adults and late entries last. Any Application received after 12:00 noon Friday will be scheduled for auditions following the adult group, with all acts auditioning notified within a few days as to the results of their audition, Eckhoff said.
Applications to perform are available at the Porterville Chamber of Commerce office, 93 N. Main St.; the Porterville Recorder office, 115 E. Oak Ave., or by calling Eckhoff at 539-1500. They can also be requested and returned online at cofspectacular@ocsnet.net.
