CHARACTER BREAKDOWNS

DIRECTOR NOTES

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Director’s Note: I am honored and thrilled to be back at Cabrillo Stage to direct The Hunchback of Notre Dame this summer. In approaching this show, I want to explore the powerful themes of love, lust, community, unity, and othering, as well as critically examine the (mis)treatment of marginalized communities in this enhanced and updated musical version. I am seeking a diverse, versatile, and physically-driven company of storytellers to help bring the sweeping score and powerful story to life. We value unique talents, skills, and abilities, and especially encourage performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and abilities to audition.

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CHARACTER BREAKDOWN

Casting performers of ALL ages above 16

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Quasimodo: The bell-ringer of Notre Dame and Claude Frollo’s charge. Lonely and staunchly obedient to Frollo, who has convinced him he is a monster because of his physical appearance, he possesses a vivid imagination that he brings to life. The bells and gargoyles of the cathedral are his escape. Despite his shyness and uncertainty, he quickly befriends Esmeralda. Big-hearted, and brave when need be. A physically and vocally demanding role. 

Gender: Male-presenting

Age: early 20s to late 30s

Vocal range top: Bb4

Vocal range bottom: Bb2

 

Claude Frollo: Archdeacon of Notre Dame Cathedral and the most powerful cleric in Paris, he is the reluctant caretaker of Quasimodo. Though he is smart and shows some compassion toward Quasimodo, his obsession with Esmeralda tortures him to the point of madness, and he lets nothing and no one stand in his way.

Gender: Male-presenting

Age: early 40s+

Vocal range top: D4

Vocal range bottom: E2

 

Esmeralda: A beautiful and free-spirited dancer who possesses the strong sense of justice and morality that Frollo lacks. Considered an outsider in Paris herself, she frees Quasimodo from the frenzied mob at the Feast of Fools. There might be a stage kiss required between Esmeralda and Phoebus. A strong dancer preferred.

Gender: Female

Age: early 20s to late 30s

Vocal range top: Db5

Vocal range bottom: Eb3

 

Phoebus de Châteaupers: Returning to Paris after serving in the war, Phoebus takes up his new position as Captain of the Cathedral Guard. He is overconfident and charming, yet his moral compass is also strong, as he later openly defies the corrupted Frollo. There might be a stage kiss required between Esmeralda and Phoebus.

Gender: Male-presenting

Age: Early 20s to early 40s

Vocal range top: Ab4

Vocal range bottom: Ab2

 

Clopin Trouillefou: Clever and charismatic master of ceremonies for the Feast of Fools. Clopin is playful, but boasts a darker, serious nature when not performing for the crowd. A seasoned physical actor and mover preferred.

Gender: Any to play either male or female-presenting 

Age: early 20s+

Vocal range top: G4

Vocal range bottom: C3

 

Congregation: The critical ensemble who also acts as the narrators of the show. We are seeking  a versatile and diverse group of actors to play multiple featured roles such as: Quasimodo’s father Jehan, Quasimodo’s mother Florika, Father Dupin, Lieutenant Frederic Charlus, King Louis XI of France, Tribunal, Madam, Saint Aphrodisius, as well as gargoyles, soldiers, and outcasts and citizens of Paris. Members of the ensemble may be asked to understudy for lead roles. 

Any gender, ethnicity, and/or ability

Age: 16+

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All roles are open to performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and ages 16+, as well as performers with disabilities.