ABOUT
Fool's Gold emerges as a theatrical gem, seamlessly blending history, romance, and adventure into a captivating musical set amidst the backdrop of the 1898 Canadian Gold Rush. It chronicles the journey of two brothers, Henry and Thomas Montrose, heirs to generational wealth but driven by the allure of pride and independent fortune.
As they embark on their quest for gold from the bustling port of Dyea to the legendary Dawson City, their fates intertwine with that of Charlotte Parker, a spirited can-can dancer whose quick wit and unwavering independence become their only chance for the treacherous trials of the Yukon. Together, they navigate the perilous Chilkoot Trail, braving the elements, fuelled by the promise of untold riches and the thrill of adventure. Their journey unfolds against a reality of privileged Victorian standards, their prior disregard for the land and its inhabitants, and their own naïvety. Throughout, they are consistently challenged both physically and mentally, forcing them to reevaluate the way they thought life was to be.
Fool's Gold pushes the boundaries of traditional musical theatre, immersing audiences in a spellbinding narrative that will resonate long after the final performance. This story will stand as a testament to the transformative power of live theatre, inviting audiences on an unforgettable journey of discovery, redemption, and the enduring pursuit of the human spirit.
A Note From the PLAYWRIGHT
In 2012, I was lucky enough to experience the real rush of the Klondike first hand. At 10 years old, my parents, little brother and I hiked the 53 km trail through the mountains from the ghost town of Dyea, Alaska to Lake Bennett, British Columbia, Canada. Back then, as much as the views were unforgettable, I didn’t realize the full significance and history - and could have never predicted the impact this trail would have on my life.
me at ten
For five days straight, we hiked with everything we needed on our backs. I have a few very specific memories from getting to experience it first hand. The remains of the hotels and saloons, and the 114 year old litter that lined the path. Hiking the Golden Staircase and my dad encouraging me as I reached false summit after false summit. Finally making it to the top of the pass and seeing everything. Sliding down in the snow on the other side. The best beef stew, still to this day, I ever had, served homemade and fresh at Lake Bennett.
hiking the chilkoot trail
We then stayed an accidental seven days in Dawson City after our car broke down and got to truly experience their community for a short period of time. Although a popular tourist destination, Dawson City is a small town, filled with history and legends, (look up the Sour Toe Cocktail.)
For the years that followed, it was occasionally brought up as an interesting idea that we would talk about but never actually sit down and write. Until I did.
Henry, Thomas, and Charlotte truly feel like friends of mine at this point. I know their motivations, their weaknesses, their childhoods, even what happens after what we see in the show. To me, their stories have become so full I often forget they aren’t “real”.
This show is my heart and I have been holding it close to me for so long, but I am now ready to share it with the world. I believe in it and hope you do as well.
Thank you for letting me “Chase the Dream”
Daphne Charrois
Auditions
AUDITION: April 22nd - CALLBACKS: April 28th
To apply for an audition slot, please email your headshot, your performance resume, and roles you would like to be considered for to auditions@foolsgoldthemusical.com with the subject line
“Fool’s Gold Audition - [Your Full Name].”
If you are unable to make these dates, include your availability in the surrounding days and we will do our best to accommodate.
Only those selected for an audition will be provided an audition time.
We welcome and encourage submissions from individuals of all gender identities, cultures, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and abilities.
At this time, only a limited stipend for talent is available.
Only those 16+ can apply.
Deadline to Apply: April 12th
Those selected must:
- Prepare a monologue of your choice (2 minutes max)
- Prepare a musical theatre song of your choice (2-3 minutes max)
- Actors may be asked to stay for a brief interview following your audition
Please bring sheet music for the live accompanist
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
THOMAS OLIVER MONTROSE (24-29)
Upper class gentlemen, quiet, reserved, introverted. He is very well educated and has a natural gift for studies. He is the first born child and all the responsibility and pressure has fallen on him. Must be comfortable playing opposite Charlotte romantically.
Vocal Part: Bari-Tenor
HENRY AUGUSTUS MONTROSE (19-24)
A charming bachelor with a quick witted sense of humour. Same upbringing as his older brother Thomas, to very different outcomes. He is a born thrill seeker and adventurer with a big heart.
Vocal Part: Tenor
CHARLOTTE PARKER* (20s)
A spitfire with a warm, lovable personality. She is always one to take the lead and get things done. Quick to challenge others and raise her voice, she is not shy, but she is lovable. Even without a formal education, she is very well educated from her experiences. Must be comfortable playing opposite Thomas romantically.
Vocal Part: Mezzo-Soprano
DOVE (30s-50s)
The brothel Madam in Dyea. Confident, commanding presence, that can both entertain and strike fear. Dove will also play various ensemble roles.
Vocal Part: Alto
NORTH-WEST MOUNTED POLICE (20s-40s)
Dressed in their well known red serge, they work to keep the north settled during a time when there was an unstoppable influx of people heading to Dawson City.
They will also play ensemble roles.
ENSEMBLE (20s-70s)
Can-can dancers, prospectors, miners, sour-doughs, townspeople. The ensemble plays a crucial role and is in nearly every scene.
*The role of Charlotte has been cast, seeking Understudy/Ensemble
MEDIA
CREATIVE TEAM
Director
VANESSA KING
Vanessa is an exceptionally talented theatre director, renowned for her remarkable body of work spanning over two decades. With a distinguished portfolio boasting more than 15 mainstage musical productions, Vanessa has firmly established herself as a visionary force in the theatre. Her directorial credits include iconic productions such as The Sound of Music, Legally Blonde, Newsies, Matilda, Pirates of Penzance and Little Shop of Horrors, among many others. Each of her shows consistently garners widespread acclaim and sells out performances, cementing Vanessa's reputation for delivering consistent professionalism and artistic excellence.
Vanessa's journey in theatre began with a foundation rooted in education and passion for the dramatic arts. She pursued her academic endeavours at the University of Alberta, where she earned a Bachelor of Education with a major in Drama and a minor in English. Armed with a solid academic background and a fervent dedication to her craft, Vanessa pursued her love of teaching and directing hand in hand.
With an unwavering dedication to artistic excellence and a proven track record of success, Vanessa continues to push the boundaries of theatrical storytelling, captivating audiences with her innovative vision and unparalleled artistry.
Playwright
dAPHNE CHARROIS
Daphne emerges as a dynamic force in the artistic landscape, proudly representing the intersection of her queer identity and Franço-Canadian roots. A graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, Daphne's multifaceted talents are not confined to the theatre alone; her debut single, "Don't Call Me Baby," premiered globally, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Most recently, Daphne performed as Emma Nolan in the Tony-nominated musical The Prom with NUOVA Vocal Arts, adding an extra special credit to her resume. Her experiences have been diverse, from captivating audiences as a Lead Vocalist on AIDA Cruises for two contracts to enchanting young audiences when she performed on The Stars Within Reach National Tour.
Daphne's theatrical journey includes standout performances such as Janet in The Drowsy Chaperone at the Citadel Theatre, Maria in The Sound of Music, Josephine Strong in Urinetown, and the role of Julie Siraz in the Workshop of The Big Eyed Gorilla, which premiered at A.R.T. New York City.
Beyond her achievements on stage, Daphne has ventured into the realms of playwriting and directing. Her short play, The Memory Game, is a testament to her love of writing, while her directorial work on Digging Up the Boys earned her awards for Best Director and Best Visuals.
Composer & Music Director
dAn CHARROIS
Known for his musical talent and kindness, Dan emerges as a virtuoso musician and composer. Possessing a flawless sense of pitch and an intuitive understanding of melody, he captivates listeners with his masterful command of a diverse array of instruments, ranging from the piano and guitar to the accordion and clarinet, and recently, for Fool’s Gold, banjo and fiddle.
With an unmistakable gift for arrangement and composition, Dan spends hours upon each bar of music, tirelessly crafting compositions that resonate deeply and tell the musical’s story through each note. In Fool's Gold, Dan showcases his talent by composing over twelve original songs, each meticulously crafted alongside Daphne Charrois to create what cannot be said in words alone. A consummate perfectionist, Dan's work is characterised by its polished elegance, refined craftsmanship, and unwavering passion.
With every composition, Dan's musical genius shines brightly, leaving an indelible mark on all who have the pleasure of experiencing his artistry. In Fool's Gold, his exceptional talent promises to elevate the musical to new heights, enriching the production with his creativity and boundless passion for music.
Costume Designer
jeannie CHARROIS
Jeannie is an accomplished costume designer, with her incredible talent and unwavering dedication setting her apart as a true necessity to any production. With an impressive portfolio boasting over 200+ meticulously crafted costume pieces over the last decade, with over 100 for The Sound of Music alone, Jeannie's passion, vision, and unmatched skills have garnered widespread acclaim and recognition.
Her creative journey is a testament to her innate talent and lifelong dedication to the art of design. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Education, specialising in Clothing and Textiles from the University of Alberta, Jeannie's love for sewing and design blossomed at a young age, laying the foundation for her passion of costume design.
Highlights of her work include captivating productions such as A Christmas Story, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Into the Woods, James and the Giant Peach, Newsies, Digging up the Boys, Legally Blonde, and Matilda. Each costume reflects Jeannie's boundless imagination and meticulous attention to detail, elevating productions to new heights with her pieces.
In Fool's Gold, Jeannie embarks on one of her most ambitious projects yet, crafting upscale Victorian outfits and can-can dancer ensembles, among many others. Her imaginative designs will breathe life into the characters and transport audiences back to 1898 with their intricate detail.
Donations & Sponsorship
Your support by believing in our show is already an incredible contribution.
If you feel inclined to donate, your generosity would undoubtedly make a significant impact on our ability to deliver outstanding performances and create memorable experiences for our audience. However, please remember that your support in any capacity is treasured and cherished.
If you are interested in being a sponsor, please contact info@foolsgoldthemusical.com.
