‘Young Frankenstein’ auditions April 14

Aberdeen Community Theatre will have auditions April 14 for “Young Frankenstein,” its second mainstage show of the 2013 season.

“Young Frankenstein,” based on the 1974 film, became available for licensing to ACT late last year.

Auditions will be at 2 and 7 p.m. at the Capitol Theatre, 415 S. Main St. Prospective volunteers need only attend one session. ACT’s website, aberdeencommunity theatre.com, has more specific information about audition preparation and singing requirements.

“We’re very pleased to be mounting a newly available show this year,” ACT artistic/managing director Jim Walker said in a news release. “It originally opened on Broadway a little more than five years ago. We love having the opportunity to produce and perform the hot, new musicals. I remember the film being so much fun, and now it’s a stage musical — even better.”

Northern State University Director of Theatre Daniel Yurgaitis will direct the production, with musical direction by Mary Marion. Production dates are tentatively slated for June 12-16.

A parody of horror film classics like “Frankenstein” and “Son of Frankenstein,” “Young Frankenstein” was written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder. Brooks developed the stage adaptation of what he considered his best film six years after the successful adaptation of another of his films, “The Producers.”

A large cast is needed to play gravediggers, villagers, medical students, passengers, scientists and various supporting roles, along with the featured roles of Frederick Frankenstein, his late grandfather, Victor, Igor, Inga, Elizabeth, Frau Blucher, Inspector Kemp, Ziggy and the Monster.

A large group of behind-the-scenes volunteers is needed to help with sets, costumes, hair, makeup, props, lights, sound and special effects.

No experience is needed to help in any aspect of the production — onstage or off.

“Volunteers are our lifeblood,” Walker said in the release. “Anyone, regardless of skill set or experience, can become an essential member of ACT’s team. Everyone had to be new once, so newcomers are especially invited and see what the excitement’s all about.”

Those who cannot make the scheduled audition times should contact the ACT office at 605-225-2228 or email act@nvc.net before the audition dates to schedule an alternate time.