Character Descriptions
TARZAN
A vulnerable, fearless young man raised by apes. Terk's best friend who falls in love with Jane.
Our story's protagonist.
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Must be a strong singer (with a wide vocal range), actor, with ability to move (physically, rhythmically, acrobatically).
Must exude both animalistic qualities as well as amazing human perception; should be comfortable with appearing onstage shirtless. There will be an onstage kiss between Tarzan and Jane.
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Possible Audition songs: “Strangers Like Me”; “Everything I Am”
Wide vocal range - Baritone to high tenor
JANE
Strong-willed English botanist with her eye on adventure, nature, and eventually Tarzan. She is gutsy, smart and doesn't like taking no for an answer, but is still guided by her gender role within her time. British accent.
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Should be a strong singer, actor, and have the ability to move rhythmically.
There will be an onstage kiss between Tarzan and Jane.
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Possible Audition songs: “Strangers Like Me” (ending); “For the First Time”
Mezzo Soprano-Soprano
KALA
A gentle mother ape. A warm and loving soul with just enough mothering control to be both doting and stern. Kerchak's mate and Tarzan's protector.
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Must be a strong singer, actor, and have ability to move physically as an ape and also rhythmically.
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Possible Audition songs: “Son of Man”; “You’ll Be In My Heart”
Alto-Mezzo soprano
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TERK
A sarcastic ape and Tarzan's best friend. A fun role filled with great one-liners and puns. He has a smart comeback for everything, but he would do anything for Tarzan.
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Must be a strong singer and actor. He must be energetic, fun-filled, and have the ability to move physically as an ape and also rhythmically.
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Males and females will be considered. A young Terk may also be considered.
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Possible Audition songs: "Son of Man"; “Who Better Than Me,” Scat singing
Tenor
KERCHAK
The gruff leader of the gorillas and Kala's mate; stubborn and righteous, but for a reason; crusty outside hides a warm center that often gets lost.
Must be an excellent actor, singer, and mover with VERY strong stage presence. Character is most important in the role.
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Possible Audition songs: "Two Worlds"; “No Other Way”
Baritone
PORTER
A bumbling English professor of biology who has inspired his daughter Jane’s love of nature and science. He is kind hearted and getting on in years. He just wants the best for his daughter. British accent.
May play other role(s).
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Possible Audition songs: “Son of Man”; "Like No Man I've Seen"
Baritone
YOUNG TARZAN
An innocent young boy. Loses his parents and is raised by the apes. He is adopted by Kala and Kerchak. Ideally would be comfortable performing shirtless.
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Possible Audition songs: "Son of Man"; "I Need to Know," “Who Better Than Me”
Tenor
CLAYTON
A brutish, greedy hunter and guide. Ego-driven, know-it-all, who is suave but cunning. British accent.
Non-singing role. May play other role(s).
FATHER
Appears and sings in opening number; typical Victorian dad, forthright, objective is taking care of family Will play other role(s)
Possible Audition songs: "Son of Man"; “Two Worlds” Limited singing - Tenor
MOTHER
Appears with Father at the beginning of the show. Protective and loving. Minimal singing. Will play other role(s)
Possible Audition songs: "Son of Man"; “Two Worlds” Limited singing - Mezzo Soprano
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LEOPARD
A fierce carnivore that threatens both gorillas and humans. Graceful but fierce non-singing dancer role. Will play other role(s).
SNIPES
Part of the Expedition Crew. Clayton’s weasily, but ultimately honest sidekick. British accent. Non-singing role. Will play other role(s).
GORILLAS
The majority of the cast, part of Tarzan's tribe/family. There may be climbing, swinging, and acrobatics at times. Apes are a part of big numbers and are on stage during miscellaneous scenes.
EXPEDITION CREW
The crew that arrive in Africa with Jane, Porter and Clayton. Secretly all are there in the jungle as hunters. Will play other role(s). May not cast an expedition crew other than Clayton and Snipes.