[allthatjazz]

What kind of things would you need to bring to the character of MARIA?

I have seen the film version of the film but I am not sure if I could go up for the part......
I am 18 years old, 4ft 11 with blonde hair and green eyes (obv not a very peuto rican look!), I have a strong dance background and although I sit comfortably within an alto range I think i may be able to get up to the top range of soprano .....what is maria's top note?
Here is an idea of characters I have played b4 ......
Roxie in Chicago
Tallulah in Bugsy Malone
Sandy in Grease
Charity in Sweet Charity
Bette in Oliver
Jacqui in Me and My Girl

[dramaqueen220222]

I really don't think that you should go out for Maria if you're an alto. Try perhaps Anita or Graziella (who, looks-wise, seems to fit you better), who are both strong in dance, and sing alto.

[allthatjazz]

Graziella? Whats this character like?
My theatre group offered me the chance to audition for MARIA as I was one of the younger members of the group who had acted alot before and they thought id be able to take the story and show how the character grows into a young woman by the second act.
Of course, I am worried about those high notes.....id really like to find out what her top notes are, as, being a natural alto....i mite not be able to get up there!
If I cant go for maria.....what other role could i go for? Anita is a strong women.....and very pueto rican looking - and so although i could perform and sing her songs well, AND dance the part.....i probably couldnt look enuf like her nor play that DOMINANT woman very well!
HELP!

[LisaKitty]

Sorry, but Maria is a definite soprano. She has to sustain a high-C at the end of the "Tonight" montage, and has several sustained Gs and As in other parts of the score. Having sung the role before, I can tell you, it's not easy stuff, even for a classically trained soprano!

If you naturally sing in the alto range, I think it's safe to assume that you would have some extreme vocal struggles if you attempted to perform this role.

To answer your other question, I believe Graziella is Riff's girlfriend. She doesn't have a lot of lines, or any solo singing. However, she and Riff do a lot of solo dancing in the Dance at the Gym scene, which, depending on your choreographer, can be totally show-stopping.

Another role you might want to consider is Rosalia; she has several solo lines in the "America" number, and is one of the girls who sings back up for "I Feel Pretty". More of a mezzo role than soprano, so well within your range. And I wouldn't worry too much about appearance; makeup and wigs can make you look Puerto Rican enough.

Hope that helps!

[broadway_bound]