Wellingtonians could soon find themselves under the spotlight at the St James Theatre - in an amazing outfit and heels to impress a range of celebrity judges. Showgirls: Wellington set for Queen of the Whole Universe As fundraising drag pageant Queen of the Whole Universe prepares to visit the capital for the show on Saturday 27June, the organisers are keen to meet Wellington people keen to join the cast and crew. The Auckland cast and crew re-assembled recently for their first refresher rehearsal and spirits are certainly high with most of the 'girls' remembering the routine, says Creative Director Jonathan Smith. "We're delighted that over 80% of the cast will be touring to Wellington and a significant number of crew. The recent airline pricing war between Auckland and Wellington has been fantastic for us with a saving of over $1,500 on our travel budget already," he tells GayNZ.com. Even though there are higher than expected numbers touring to the St James Theatre, Smith welcomes involvement from the local Wellington communities. "I have space for at least 15 'QWU Girls' and numerous crew members. "It is vital we have Wellingtonians in the show in order to create the amazing buzz and atmosphere required in the auditorium." Smith and QWU co-director/partner Kevin Baker will be in Wellington this weekend as their alto egos, Buffy and Bimbo, MC's of the show, will be performing at Out in the Square and hosting Sunday's Pool Party. "We want anybody who is slightly interested in the show to come along and meet us, hear about the show, see some footage from last years' show and just get to know us and understand what the QWU community means. No previous experience is required. Any gender, any sexual orientation, any culture, everyone is welcome and please trust us when we say that this is not like an American Idol or New Zealand's Got Talent audition." So if you are interested, can commit to all day rehearsals on Sat 6, 13, 20 June and the evening of Wed 24 June, attend the technical rehearsal in the evening of Thursday 25 June, dress rehearsal from 1pm on Fri 26 June and be at Sat 27 June afternoon rehearsal and show in the evening then please attend the audition, says Smith. "You will need to design or acquire a full length dress with a single high split, any colour, wigs and shoes. You'll be directed on stage therefore you must be comfortable to work in this type of environment. Learn the lyrics and dance to four songs plus the movement for the 'headgear of nations' section. We provide the choreographer. Design a HUGE headgear - this has become a trade mark of the show - maximum size is 2m x 2m. And finally - have loads of fun!" Wellington's QWU Auditions will happen at the NZAF Awhina Centre, level 1, 187 Willis Street at 12pm this Sunday 1 March. Don't be late as the 'girls' need to leave by 2pm to get frocked up for the Pool Party. For more information contact Jonathan Smith, QWU Creative Director via email: eventimento@xtra.co.nz.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Friday, 27th February 2009 - 1:43pm