Hear ye, hear ye! Last call for actors

This is the last year the Renaissance Festival will be in Largo. The show is looking for a few more performers.

By MICHAEL SANDLER, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published January 4, 2003

LARGO -- As always, sword swallowers and fire eaters are welcome.

But even those who lack a certain precarious edge are encouraged to drive down to Lake Seminole Park today and leap into character.

The Bay Area Renaissance Festival needs players to perform in this year's final festival in Largo, the Last Huzzah.

"That's an old word used to say 'Hooray!' " said festival organizer Jim Peterson.

"We are looking for extraordinary, exceptional talent that will mesmerize thousands. We don't like normal acts. They have to be funny, and the real key is to entertain people."

Auditions begin 10 a.m. at Shelter 10 at Lake Seminole Park, 10015 74th (Park Boulevard) Ave. N.

No acting experience is required. In fact, festival organizers say they are willing to coach newcomers, so long as they appear enthusiastic.

People are encouraged to wear clothing in which you can move freely, bring something to drink and be prepared to spend the afternoon. Auditions will include improvisations individually and in groups.

"We want people who have good physical movements, who can communicate their ideas well," said Stephanie Moffett, a player the past 11 years and one of the directors choosing players for the show.

"We are really looking for people who are willing to play, let down their guard, and not be too concerned about how they look or sound," she said.

This year's festival should be especially memorable as it will be the last in Largo.

After 24 years and a court battle with the city, Peterson agreed to take his show elsewhere after one final season. He said he is currently looking at sites in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties, but has yet to settle on a future for the past.

Peterson wants the final show in Largo to be his best ever, and is considering special themes to illustrate that point. People will be encouraged to take a piece of the show when they take apart one of the stages. He intends to ask public officials to take part. Some other surprises are still to come.

"To celebrate the king is dead, long live the king," he said.

Moffett said the show traditionally takes 100 to 150 people to act as townspeople and peasants. Of course, they wouldn't mind a few skilled players.

"Anybody who has specialized talents and skills we love to see," she said. "But other than that, we are looking for our local cast. People who will play villagers. Just normal people."

The festival begins the weekend of March 8 and runs every weekend until April 13.

In the event of heavy rain, auditions will be at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Renaissance Festival offices, 1920 Lake Ave., Largo.

-- Michael Sandler can be reached at 445-4174 or sandler@sptimes.com .

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