CRESTVIEW — William Gibson's "The Miracle Worker" is one of theatre's most challenging plays.
View From the Stage feels up to the challenge and will cast the drama next weekend.
The story of tutor Annie Sullivan's struggle to break through to a deaf, mute, spoiled and stubborn Helen Keller won four Tony Awards when released in 1959. It ran more than 700 performances.
Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke reprised their stage roles as Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller in the 1962 film adaptation, which won three Academy Awards.
When done well, "The Miracle Worker" is a tour de force that leaves audiences emotionally moved and cast members physically and emotionally drained.
"Certain parts are intense and physically demanding," View From the Stage Executive Director Berit Faust said.
The story is a departure from the light comedies the community theatre troupe staged for its first two productions, and last month's tune-filled "A Christmas Carol."
Its production ups the ante for substantive, thought-provoking theatre in Crestview.
Faust said the troupe will cast three adult male roles, seven adult female roles and eight youth roles, ages 7-15. Performances are tentatively set for April 11-13.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT:Auditions for "The Miracle Worker"
WHEN: 3-6 p.m. Feb. 1; 4-6 p.m. Feb. 2. Call-backs at 6 p.m. Feb. 4 if necessary
WHERE: Journey Java Connection, 269 N. Main St., Crestview
DETAILS: Roles required include three adult males, seven adult females and eight children ages 7-15. Some parts are physically demanding. Come prepared to read; provide a recent head shot and résuméof experience.
Email News Bulletin Arts and Entertainment Editor Brian Hughes, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview theatre troupe casting 'The Miracle Worker'