'Motown' auditions being held in Chicago

Local actors and singers will get a shot to be cast members in “Motown The Musical,” the musical produced by Kevin McCollum, Doug Morris and Motown legend Berry Gordy. Chicago has been tapped as one of the cities across the country where auditions are being held for African-American singers for both the Broadway production of the hit show — and the upcoming national tour.

Here’s the drill: African-Americans, ages 20s to 40s with “exceptional voices” are being sought. They also will be looking for an African-American boy, age 8 to 13, to play young Michael Jackson/Berry Gordy/Stevie Wonder. No prior theater experience is necessary.

All vocal parts are encouraged to attend the audition, which will be held 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at the Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph Street. (Please enter via the stage door on James M. Nederlander Way — the north alley behind the Oriental).

Candidates should bring along sheet music for a song of choice from the Motown songbook, that best features the auditioning candidate’s vocal range.

They also need to bring a phone and resume that includes contact information (cell phone, email), stapled together. An accompanist will be provided.

For more information go to motownmusical.com/casting.

“Motown The Musical,” based on the life of Berry Gordy, currently playing on Broadway, is part of the Broadway in Chicago 2014 spring season.