Casting

These four narrators tell the story of the Once On This Island Junior. They can be female or male. These four roles are perhaps the most difficult of the show. Not only do they sing the bulk of the show, they also tell the story, and if properly directed, focus the audience's attention on important events throughout the production. Cast excellent singers who can both act and handle the demands of a sizeable role.

Mama is the symbolic mother of us all. She is loving, practical, funny and earthy.This is a great role for a good actress with a pleasant voice. Be sure to audition Mama with Tonton as you will want to cast two people who perform well together and have stage chemistry.

Tonton is the loving father to his adopted daughter, Ti Moune. Tonton is strong, practical, and supportive. He is faced with the difficult task of letting Ti Moune chase her dreams, even if it means that he may never see the daughter he loves again. The performer who plays this role should have a nice voice and be a good actor. It helps, but isn't necessary, to cast a boy whose voice has already changed. Remember to audition Mama and Tonton together to check out their stage compatibility. Pay attention to the physical match between them. If Tonton is the same height or taller than Euralie, they are visually believable as a couple to the audience.

Little Girl and Little Ti Moune are played by the same actress. Look for someone that can portray a frightened girl, as well as a spunky, young girl who enjoys running and playing around. These characters have no solo singing lines, so this is the perfect place to cast a younger performer with good acting skills and a dynamic stage presence. The Peasant Girl is often played by the same actress, but you can choose to cast another actor for this role.

Ti Moune is the forcus of our story and is featured in solo songs and dance. The actress performing the role should have an excellent voice and be an excellent dancer. The music Ti Moune sings is written in a pop style; make sure the actress can sing this style of music. She must be able to drive the energy of her scenes. Ti Moune performs a pivotal dance solo. If you are considering an actress who is a wonderful singer and actor but not a strong dance, don't worry. This dance isn't as much about choreography as it is about storytelling.

Daniel is the leading male character in Once On This Island JR. Cast a boy with a good voice and who is comfortable acting ang moving. His role is dramatic and exciting. Pair up potential Ti Mounes and Daniels at your final audition. Remember, the most successful casting decisions are the perfect combination of talent, look and chamistry.

This is a very small walk-on part at the very end of the show. Cast the smallest, cutest boy available to play Daniel's son. Consider casting a younger sibling from your company. This is a non-singing and non-speaking role.

The Gatekeeper has one scene. This role can be portrayed by a boy or a girl, but he or she needs a booming voice and strong stature. Cast a performer who takes command of the stage and is capable of taking instruction for stage combat. This is a great place for an actor or actress who's not quite ready for a large part or for someone who doesn't have a strong singing voice.

Unlike Tonton Julian, Daniel's father is not sympathetic or understanding of his son's wishes. This is a small male role requiring some singing and acting. This is a good role for an actor who is not quite ready for a large part.

Andrea is Daniel's refined and beautiful fiancée. Daniel and Andrea have been promised to each other by their parents since birth. She is sophisticated, educated and the exact opposite of Ti Moune. The actress performing the role should have a reasonably good voice and be able to move gracefully. Andrea needs to come across as the ultimate snob.

Papa Ge describes himself as "the sly demon of death." He is also the closest thing to a "bad guy" in Once On This Island Junior. The actor playing this role must be able to create a strong character and have an evil laugh! He should be a good singer, but he does not need to have a polished, pretty voice - in fact, the more unique his vocal quality is, the better. Papa Ge could be portrayed by a girl, but generally works best with a male actor.

Asaka is the Goddess of the Earth and sings one of the most popular and fun songs of the show, "Mama Will Provide." Cast an xcellent singer who moves well and has a robust personality. This performer should be played by a female who can create a fun character larger than life!

Agwe is the God of Water. He or she has a solo early in the show that requires an excellent voice ("Rain"). Cast an actor capable of driving the energy of this scene.

Erzulie is the triumphant Goddess of Love. Cast a graceful mover with a pretty voice. This is a perfect role for an actress who can be confident yet charming.

(Peasants, Villagers, Guests, Grands Hommes) The ensemble is easily expandable to accommodate kids of nearly any ability. This is a great place to cast a child who is new to your program in order to see how he or she handles themselves in a show. (Remember, next year's lead may come from this year's ensemble.) Your ensemble has the opportunity to perform many roles, transforming from Peasants to wealthy Grands Hommes. However, if you have thousands come out to audition, cast specific ensemble roles. This way cast members will not play more than one part. Feature your stronger performers with solos or dialogue.

The Gossipers are a great way to cast performers who may or may not be quite ready for larger roles but deserve a few featured lines. These performers should be actors and singers that take direction well.