College of The Albemarle’s Student Theatre (COAST) is excited to announce upcoming auditions and community engagement events for its spring production of “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812.” This musical, composed by Dave Malloy, offers a fresh and electrifying take on a classic tale from Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace.”
Audition Information: The first round of auditions for principal characters will take place Monday, September 9th, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. by appointment only, at College of The Albemarle’s (COA) Performing Arts Center (PAC). Auditions are open to those aged 16 and above. This is an opportunity for actors to participate in a production that has captivated audiences on and off Broadway. The audition form for principal roles is available at https://bit.ly/3yM2jRX.
A second round of auditions for ensemble roles will be held Wednesday and Thursday, December 18th and 19th, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The audition form for these roles will be released closer to the date.
Countdown to Comet Listening Events: In anticipation of this electropop opera, COAST will host two special “Countdown to Comet” listening events on Fridays, August 30th and September 6th, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center.
These events are designed to familiarize the community with the unique and dynamic music of “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812,” featuring strobing lights, fog effects, and stage combat. Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to the show’s music, explore concept art, and learn more about the production process. This is an excellent chance to get a sneak peek into what promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience.
About “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812”: “Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812” is an award-winning musical that reimagines a scandalous segment of Tolstoy’s “War and Peace” with a contemporary flair. The story follows the young and impulsive Natasha Rostova, who, while waiting for her fiancé’s return from war, is drawn into a whirlwind romance with the charming but reckless Anatole. It is up to Pierre, a family friend facing his existential crisis, to help Natasha restore her reputation. With a daring score that blends classical themes with modern electropop, this production is a fresh and electrifying addition to the musical theater landscape.
About COAST: The College of The Albemarle Student Theatre (COAST) is dedicated to bringing high-quality theatrical productions to the community and allowing students to develop their talents in a professional and supportive environment. COAST is committed to engaging audiences across the region with diverse and dynamic performances.
About the Production: The performances, scheduled for March 28-30, 2025, will be geared toward high school-age students and adults, offering both groups an engaging and relatable experience. COAST invites the entire community to participate in these events and to support local theater at COA.
For more information about auditions or the “Countdown to Comet” events, please contact Mary Elysse Santa, COA Drama Director, at [email protected] or 252-335-0821, ext. 2297.
For PAC-related information, contact Beth Jarvis at 252-335-9050 or [email protected].
For other COA-related information or media requests, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, COA Director of Communications and Marketing, at 252-335-0821 ext. 2420 or [email protected].