CHOC full of fun, the follies want volunteers

Tom Titus

So you’ve been going to the theater for a while, and have marveled

at the local talent on stage, secretly wondering if you could ever

get up there and sing, dance or act.

Well, here’s your chance. The annual CHOC Follies VII will be

holding auditions today and Jan. 19 in Newport Beach, and previous

theatrical experience is not necessary. The only requirement is that

you’ve passed your 21st birthday.

“In the last seven years, the CHOC Follies has tapped into the

imagination and theatrical talents of many Orange County business,

cultural, social and civic leaders,” said publicist Gloria Zigner,

one of the organizers of the charity event.

Proceeds will benefit Children’s Hospital of Orange County. In its

first six productions, the CHOC Follies raked in more than $1.2

million for the CHOC Foundation for Children while bringing laughter

and enjoyment to the casts and the audiences, according to Zigner.

The talent may be on the amateur side, but the creative contingent

is all-pro. Director John Vaughan, choreographer Lee Martino and

musical director Doug Austin have helmed the past six shows and

they’re on board for the upcoming version, “As the Channels Turn -- a

Musical Romp Through TV Land.”

The show will be presented for only two performances, March 14 and

15, at the Grove Theater of Anaheim. Tryouts are at Newport Beach’s

Sutton Place Hotel, 4500 MacArthur Blvd., today from 10 a.m. to noon

and Jan. 19 from 2 to 4 p.m.

“It’s only necessary to attend one audition,” Zigner said, adding

that all auditioners should wear comfortable clothing.

Those wishing to try out for a solo song or dance should bring

their own music. A pianist will be available.

Rehearsals, mostly on Saturdays during the day, will be held in

the former Wells Fargo Bank building at Bristol Street and Town

Center Drive in Costa Mesa. The first all-cast meeting is scheduled

for 10 a.m. Jan. 25 in the rehearsal hall.

“It’s one of the most fun experiences you’ll ever have,” Zigner

promises. “Of course, you are required to sell a minimum of $500

worth of tickets or sponsorships to the show.”

The CHOC Follies offer participants a chance to “get into the act”

and help a worthy cause in the process.

For more information, contact Zigner at [email protected].

* TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Daily Pilot. His

reviews appear Thursdays and Saturdays.