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The Rise and Fall of Little Voice
is Jim Cartwright’s original stage play, upon which the successful and highly acclaimed British film Little Voice, starring Jane Horrocks
and Michael Caine, is based.
OUTRAGEOUS COMEDY, WONDERFUL SONGS
AND MAYBE A TEAR OR TWO ALONG THE WAY
The play tells the story of a shy, reclusive girl known as “Little Voice” (or “LV”) and her larger-than-life, out-of-control mother, Mari.
Desperately missing her dead father, Little Voice spends her time hiding away in her bedroom listening to her dad's old album collection and perfecting astonishing impersonations of famous divas of a bygone era.
When Mari starts dating small-time club agent Ray Say, she thinks he's her last chance for a better life. When Ray Say hears Little Voice sing, he thinks she's his ticket to the big time. Little Voice just wants a normal life and to be loved. Not everyone is going to get what they want!
CHARACTERS
Little Voice (LV) - A shy, reclusive young women with a remarkable talent for brilliantly impersonating the voices of famous singers. (F Stage age mid 20's, around 20 years younger than Mari. Must be able to sing confidently)
Mari Hoff - Little Voice's mother and an imposing presence on those around her. Brassy, self absorbed. Has got by on her looks, but they're fading fast. A once-in-a -lifetime character role, something to really sink your teeth into.
(F Stage age 40s. Around 20 years older than LV).
Ray Say - Small-time impresario
(M 40s - 60s a smooth talking sleaze, think used car sales man)
Sadie - The neighbour . Script makes reference to her being a large woman, who is needled mercilessly by Mari about her weight, but this is not crucial to being cast in the role. This character is a bit odd and the actor needs to be able to get that across with very little dialogue (F 30 - 70s)
Billy - Shy, reserved and works for the phone company.
Love interest for LV (M 20s - early 40s)
Phone Man - A man who fixes phones, thinks he has a chance with Mari
(M 30 – 60s)
Mr Boo - Owner of the local club, option for the actor to mould this character
(M late 20s – 50s)
(Ages are all approximates and will depend on who else is cast)
All auditionees will be asked to read excerpts from the script. An ability to learn accents is essential. Northern English accents required for most characters, some characters may be able to get away with other English accents or Scottish/Irish.
For the role of Little Voice, actresses will also be asked to prepare 3 partial songs.
1. a single verse and the chorus from “The Man that Got Away”, in the vocal style of Judy Garland.
2. Happy Birthday Mr President, in the vocal style of Marilyn Monroe.
3. A single verse and the chorus, from “Goldfinger” in the vocal/performance style of Shirley Bassey.
Also, optionally you may present;
4. A verse and chorus from any other song in the style of the playlist available on Youtube
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