Steel Pier
by Fred Ebb, John Kander, David Thompson, Susan Stroman

late 30s. Was "Lindy's Lovebird" – the first woman to kiss Lindbergh when he crossed the Atlantic. Was the darling of the press and the Vaudeville circuit. Over the last few years, however, she has been performing in stage shows...side shows...air shows. And now, as the Depression takes hold of the country – dance marathons. Rita is full of life. Wildly charismatic. And vulnerable. High belt with a good mix.

40s. She is one of the marathon's featured performers. Quick. Dry. Biting. “Everyone's Girl.” Loves the life of the marathon dancer. Loves the marathons. She dances with Luke. Strong low belt with a good head voice.

40s. The marathon's promoter. He serves as the marathon's master of ceremonies. Smooth. Stylish. Performs for the crowds. He has fought all his life for what he has been able to call his own. Beneath the polish, he's a street fighter – willing to do anything to get what he wants. Baritone with a strong F.

55-60. The floor judge. He has been traveling with Michk to the different marathons. A kind man in a dirty business. He is Mick's henchman – the go-between. Must sing. High tenor.

40-45. Vaudevillian. A non-stop talker. Always quick with a story. Even if no wants to hear it. Oblivious to those around him. Dances with his sister, Bette. Tenor.

35-40. Buddy's sister. Always tries to be optimistic. Tries to see the bright side of everything. Must sing.

Early 30s. An athlete. Imposing. Someone who wrestled in the Olympics. Sees the marathon as just another sport. Disciplined. Someone who would probably win. Dances with Dora. Baritone.

45-50. An attractive woman who at one time in her life had money. Now she has nothing. Still tries to keep up the facade. Dances with Johnny Adel. Mezzo.

Early 20s. Precious' husband. Raised on a farm. Strapping. Despite his and and inexperience, he is much smarter – and even more worldly – than he appears. Lyric baritone.

18-20. The young newlywed. Married to Happy. On the surface seems innocent. Wide-eyed. Fresh. She is however, drive, steely. Determined to get her show so that she never has to return home. Soprano with a lovely high C and an E above that, if possible.

30-35. Quiet. Keeps to himself. Plays instruments. Must play at least one of the following instruments proficiently: harmonica, fiddle, guitar, ukulele, concertina, accordion. Dances with Shelby.

3 women who sing back-up for Mick during the radio show. They must be oustanding singers with talent for blending and singing tight harmony. Two sopranos. One alto. Must also be able to dance.

5 actors

Dancers in the marathon. Must be outstanding dancers who can sing. They must also span a wide range of types and ages. 5 women and 8 men.

Late 30s. A daredevil who has crashed his plane. Ever since he first saw Rita at an airshow, he has been in love with her. He is a hot-dog flyer. An American classic. Someone who still believes in the power of having a dream. Strong tenor with good high notes – Ab.