RSVP Community Theatre announces auditions for its summer musical, "Gypsy," a Stephen Sondheim musical inspired by the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee.

Auditions will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 31, and from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, June 3, at the Moring Arts Center, 123 Sunset Avenue in downtown Asheboro. Call-backs, if needed, will be held Wednesday, June 4. Performances will be Friday, July 25, Saturday, July 26, and Friday through Sunday, Aug. 13 at the Asheboro High School Performing Arts Center. This production is directed by Devan Ward, Bethany Jennings is the musical director, Lauren Thornburg is the choreographer, and Lisa Johnson serves as the accompanist.

Over 30 members in this cast, range from ages 8 to 80, both male and female. Lead roles include Mama Rose, Louise, Herbie, Jane, and Tulsa. Auditionees will sing songs that show their vocal range. An accompanist will be present for those who provide their own sheet music; a CD/cassette tape player will be provided. Some basic dance steps will be taught, so comfortable clothing that will allow for movement is suggested. Auditionees may be asked to read from the script. Rehearsals will be week nights from 7 to 9 p.m., and some Saturdays.

"Gypsy" is the story of the life of an acting family whose quest for fame is during the decline of vaudeville and the rise of burlesque. An overbearing stage mother seeks to live her dreams of stardom through her daughters. Featured are the Broadway classics, "Let Me Entertain You," "Everything's Coming Up Roses," "You Gotta Get a Gimmick," and "Together Wherever We Go."

"Gypsy" opened on Broadway in 1959 with Ethel Merman. Three revivals since then have featured Angela Lansbury, Tyne Daly, and Bernadette Peters; the latest revival opened this March with Patti LuPone as Rose.

This production is made possible, in part, by a grant from the North Carolina Arts Council through the Randolph Arts Guild.

For further information, contact the Randolph Arts Guild at (336) 629-0399.