'Tom Dooley' play set to return after 2-year absence

News-Topic, Lenoir, N.C.
·2 min read

May 10—NORTH WILKESBORO — Bleu Moon Productions announces auditions for the 20th Season of "Tom Dooley: A Wilkes County Legend." The show is returning after a two-year break during the pandemic. Auditions will be held at 216 Ninth Street, North Wilkesboro on May 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26 at 6:30 p.m.

There will be cold readings from the script. All roles are open and the cast ages range from small children (if they cannot read they can recite a nursery rhyme) to senior adults. Those interested in working behind the scenes (lighting, sound, set construction, backstage crew) are encouraged to attend the auditions and sign up.

Based on the popular lover's triangle, murder of Laura Foster and hanging of Tom Dula (pronounced Dooley) made famous by The Kingston Trio ballad, Tom Dooley — roles include: Adult roles (18 years of age and older): Tom Dooley, Anne Melton, Perline Foster, Laura Foster, James Melton, Lotty Foster, Ma Dooley, Gwendolyn Smith, Calvin Cowles, Martha Cowles, James Grayson, Julia Grayson, Jack Adkins, Governor Zeb Vance, Celia Scott, Anna Dooley, Preacher, Preacher's Wife, Betsy Scott, Martha Gilbert, Aunt Discretion, J. W. Winkler, Jonathan Gilbert, Bob Cummings, Jack Keaton, Caroline Barnes, Michael O'Hara, Doc Carter, Will Foster, Lieutenant Hendrix, Yank, Reb and Sam Teenagers Ages Approx.16 to 18: Ida Mae, Mary Beth, Jenny Lynn — Young Boys & Girls (elementary to junior high age): Delivery Boy at Lotty's house, Eliza Dooley, Boys announcing soldiers, flag boy, James Foster. There is also a need for townspeople (great for newcomers to the stage — and soldiers). For audition questions — leave a message on Bleu Moon Productions Facebook page.

The show will be presented outdoors at the Forest's Edge Amphitheatre on Hwy 421 North in Historic Fort Hamby Park in July on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays with the exception of 4th of July week. Rehearsals begin in June.

The show will be directed this season by long time cast member, Amanda Brookshire. Over the years, she has become an audience favorite, playing the role of Lotty Foster.

"Amanda has a real understanding and love for the show" says Karen Reynolds, who wrote the play and has directed the show since its opening in 2001. "This season, I'm excited to see the 2022 performance from a fresh perspective!"

Bleu Moon Productions is produced through a partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and is a proud member of The Institute of Outdoor Drama and also the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce. The show was created for and is committed to the support of tourism in Wilkes County and its surrounding areas.