Musical: Gideon ~ Frequently asked questions

• How big is the cast?
   
  Not counting the main roles of Gideon, Ruth and the Angel, the cast may comprise five males and five females. There could of course be more.
   
• Is this children’s theatre?
   
  While younger children would enjoy it, much of the dialogue is geared towards an older audience.
   
• Is the music difficult to play?
   
  No, the music is relatively simply notated and will not require the skills of a concert pianist.
   
• Is the music varied?  What instruments are used?
   
  Yes, it is varied.  It ranges from beat music ("War Song 2") to the hymnal ("Oh My People").
  The notation is for piano though percussion instruments, amongst others, may be added. A demo CD is included with the script.
   
• What kinds of costumes are needed?
   
  This is the director’s choice.  Performers may wear the traditional black tights offset by additionals.The Midianites may wear trench coats, hats and dark glasses or grotesque half–masks,  complemented by appropriate make-up.
   
• Is there a need for décor?
   
  Gideon is portable and may be performed without décor.
   
• Are the roles demanding?
   
  The role of Gideon is fairly demanding.  He needs to portray a range of emotions, from cynical
  detachment to deep regret, from fear to triumph. Ruth and the Angel too, need to support this role
  in its variations.
   
• How many songs are there? What else does the script offer?
   
  There are seven songs. Some songs are also performed wordlessly for texture. There is some choral verse and this may be performed with percussion. There are possibilities for creative movement.
   
• How long will Gideon take to rehearse?
   
  The duration of Gideon is 25 minutes. For this reason it may be rehearsed in the space of a month (two to three rehearsals per week) provided that the cast is word-perfect at the start.
   
• Is GIDEON relevant for modern audiences?
   
  Yes.  It deals with the characteristic modern stance of scepticism when confronted by the existence of a higher realm.  The rewards of cynicism and scepticism are questioned;  the timeless spiritual battle, engaged. The Midianites are seen as inner enemies, rather than as historical-political adversaries.
   
• Is Gideon fun?
   
  Yes.  It will drum up your fire.
   
• Costs
   
  The cost for securing the performing right for Gideon Is R600.   Bona fide church groups are exempt from the 10% box office tarrif.
   
• Information and performance rights
   
  For further information, performance rights and contract, please contact us.