“It was so touching,” she said of being able to raise $1,395. Erin Walker, a performer from Seattle, WA, raised the money for a flight into New York within 24 hours through an Indiegogo campaign. Performers from all over the world showed up to make sure they wouldn’t miss their chance to dance on the “Corny Collins Show.” Some flew in from Ireland, while others drove in from New Jersey. Marissa Jaret Winokur originated the role on Broadway in 2002 and received the 2003 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance. What makes you sort of forget that she’s…not skinny is that she’s great, and that’s what rides you through the show.”Īccording to casting notes, Tracy is described as “outgoing, unstoppable, good-hearted with a vibrant, lovable spirited personality.” The character was created by Ricki Lake in the 1988 John Waters film that inspired the musical.

You, as the audience, have to keep rooting for her because you know she’s talented. “She fights against all odds when everyone is shutting the door on her. According to Telsey, the next Tracy needs to have a lot of “chutzpah.” “She really is the champion of the show,” he said. (Shanice Williams, the breakout star from The Wiz Live!, was discovered at last year’s open call for the NBC live musical event). Telsey explained that open casting calls are important when directors are looking for fresh-faced actresses. Girls of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities stood on West 43rd Street for their chance to sing “Good Morning Baltimore,” Tracy’s iconic opening number. Over 1,000 hopefuls began lining up at 5 PM the night before, and by 7 AM the line was circling the block. The search for Tracy Turnblad, the outgoing and outspoken teen destined to dance on her favorite television show, began at 9 AM April 24 at Telsey + Co.

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