The Grand Theatre is putting out a casting call for guitars.
The request is in preparation for its upcoming production of "Joni Mitchell: River" beginning October 21. The musical documents the life and musical style of the Canadian singer-songwriter.
The theatre estimates dozens of guitars will be needed for the performance.
“We need between 18 and almost 25 different guitars for each song,” says Allen McInnis, director and co-creator of the production. “Because you can’t stop and re-tune a guitar over and over.”
Because of the high demand, the Grand is asking local musicians to bring their guitars to an audition. Musical director Greg Lowe will play and select the ones that will be used in the production. McInnis says they are looking for guitars with a wide variety of features.
“Guitars that have different qualities in terms of sound,” says McInnis. “Stringier sounding guitars, some mellower quality, some high guitars that the song suits the smaller bodied, higher pitch kind of sound. And so there is a great opportunity to go to the public to look for a wide range of guitars, and discover what kind of qualities we can bring to the music.”
Having done the show before, McInnis knows that many will leap at the opportunity to share their instrument.
“There are a lot of musicians and amateur musicians with beautiful guitars, who have a huge appreciation for a quality guitar," says McInnis.
Anyone whose guitar is selected will receive a VIP invitation to the opening night, as well as the chance to have their guitar profiled in the house program and special photo exhibit. The casting call will take place on June 1 and 2 from 5:30pm-7pm. All participants are asked to come through the Grand's stage door behind the theatre, off of Dufferin Ave. A free guitar workshop and 'Jam' session will also be offered on June 5 from 2pm-3:30pm.
More details can be found at the Grand's website.
**this story was written by Samuel Gallant. Samuel is a student in the Fanshawe College broadcast journalism program. He is performing a summer internship with Blackburn News.**