Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ Is an original musical adapted from the 1880 novel with the same name by Lew Wallace. Set against the backdrop of Jesus Christ’s ministry and crucifixion, the show focuses on a Jewish prince’s quest for revenge and ultimate salvation after being framed by a childhood friend for the attempted assassination of a Roman governor.
Actors:
- Prepare the musical selection that best suits your voice
- Be ready to read attached sides. You may request a specific side or be assigned one in the room.
Character Descriptions and Vocal Ranges
Tirzah (F) Mezzo A3-E5: Sister to Judah. An innocent soul who loves her family with her whole heart. Hopeful even on the brink of death. Prominent in 5 songs
Balthazar (M) Baritone C3-Eb4: An Egyptian man of wealth who saw the savior as a newborn. Deeply connected to his faith in the One True God, in opposition to the culture of his people. Prominent in 4 songs
Simonides (M) Baritone C3-F4: A former servant to the house of Hur. Deeply loves his daughter, Esther, and is ready to sacrifice much for her. Is deeply interested in the idea of the Messiah being a political savior. Prominent in 3 songs
Iras (F) Alto A3-D5 (E5): Daughter of Balthazar. She is a beautiful and enticing woman and she knows it. Hesitant towards her father’s faith and always seeking the beauty in the world. Prominent in 1 song.
Miriam (F) Alto A3-C5: Mother to Judah. A woman of profound faith and guide to her son. Contracts leprosy while in prison but never gives up hope that she’ll see her son again. Prominent in 5 songs
Esther (F) Soprano G3-E5: Daughter of Simonides and smitten with Judah. Believes in Jesus as a savior of souls and becomes ready to stand for her faith. Prominent in 3 songs
Malluch (M) Baritone B3-E4: Merchant of Antioch working under Simonides. A seedy businessman with a penchant for greed. Somewhat of a sidekick to Judah. Prominent in 1 song.
Acting Sides
Actors may be asked to read selections from the script as part of their callback. Click below if you’d like to read them in advance.