MAT sets auditions for 'Fantastic Mr. Fox'

Montana Actors’ Theatre is holding auditions Sunday and Monday for a well-loved children’s story.

Auditions for “Fantastic Mr. Fox” start at 7 p.m. both days in The Little Theatre on the bottom floor of the west end of Cowan Hall at Montana State University-Northern.

The play is based on the 1970 book written by Roald Dahl, also known for works such as “James and the Giant Peach,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and the screen play for the 1968 movie adaptation of Ian Fleming’s “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”

“Fantastic Mr. Fox” is a favorite of Dahl’s as well as readers around the world, and has been translated into an opera and a stop-motion animated picture.

“Three horrid farmers — Boggis, Bunce and Bean— hate cunning Mr Fox, who outwits them at every turn,” the official Roald Dahl website says.

An MAT release about the auditions says the “story follows the vain attempts of … Boggis, Bunce and Bean, one fat, one short, one lean, to get rid of the fox who regularly steals food from their farms.

“They try to kill him by any means possible,” the release continues. “Outwitted at every turn, the farmers’ ploys backfire. Fantastic Mr. Fox devises a plan which will ensure full stomachs for not only his family, but all his friends, who celebrate with a sumptuous feast.”

The MAT production offers a minimum of six adult and four child main speaking roles. Additional roles are available for several children.

People can contact Kate at katehagen@hotmail.com for more information.

The production uses a large cast and everyone is welcome to audition, with no experience necessary, the release said.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce kids to the theater,” it added. “There will also be opportunities for backstage and tech, so even if you aren’t sure about acting, join us and see what’s available!”

The play is scheduled for production Friday and Saturday March 22-23 and Fridays through Sundays March 29-31 and May 5-7, with weekend matinées.