This November, I am directing  ZAGAZOO for Mammoth Lakes Repertory Theatre, as part of their programming for family audiences.

The stage adaptation by Mike Kenny of the classic children's book by Quentin Blake (known for illustrating Matilda and The BFG  and other works by Roald Dahl). In addition to directing, I am design and building puppets based on the original watercolor illustrations. I couldn't be more excited to jump in to the design process!

This week, I started working on a mock up of a dragon character who appears and causes havoc with his fiery breath.  
Below are some snap shots I took between steps. During this part of the process, I'll decide how large the puppets need to be, what they need to do in each scene, and what materials to use. I'll continue to post more photos as I move forward in the process, so please check back soon!

-Park

About the Show

ZAGAZOO
By Quentin Blake, adapted for the stage by Mike Kenny

Park Cofield seeks actors for a production of Zagazoo, written by the prominent British author and illustrator, Quentin Blake. The play is intended for all ages and features original live music, acrobatics, and paper puppetry techniques. The production will be rehearsed in Los Angeles and performed in Mammoth Lakes California at the Edison Theater for student and family audiences. 

Auditions will be held on Wednesday, August 21st from 7:30 – 9:30pm. Please send headshots and resumes to [email protected] to request an appointment.

Character Breakdown:

George: Male. Late 20’s – Early 30s. Puppetry, dance, and juggling skills a plus. Tall, slender, nerdy.
Bella: Female. Late 20’s – Early 30’s.  Puppetry, dance, and juggling skills a plus. Cute, motherly, quirky.
Zagazoo: Male. Early 20’s, must look young.  Minimal spoken text, but will provide sound effects for multiple animal characters. Strong puppetry skills required.

This is a non-union/non-equity production. Production stipend, transportation, and housing will be provided. Future engagements and tours are possible.

Rehearsal and Production Dates:

Rehearsals: October 19th – November 2nd

15-20 hours both weeks. Days/times to be determined based on actor availability. 

Production Week in Mammoth: November 4th – November 10th

Monday, Nov 4th – Travel to Mammoth (5 hour drive), Load in, Cue to Cue in space
Tuesday, Nov 5th – Tech in Space - AM; 2 full runs - PM
Wednesday, Nov 6th – School Performance – AM
Thursday, Nov 7th – School Performance – AM
Friday, Nov 8th – School Performance – AM
Saturday, Nov 9th – Family Performance – Noon
Sunday, Nov 10th – Ski Day?
Monday, Nov 11th – Travel to LA (5 hour drive)

ALSO HIRING:

Production Assistant: Responsible for overseeing LA rehearsals, production logistics, and management of actors during production week in Mammoth Lakes. The person will also appear on stage in a non-speaking role of a young girl character. A stipend, travel, and housing will be provided.