“The Monkeys” Screen Tests

The Monkeys! Did You Know This?

The Beatles movie ‘Hard Day’s Night’ was the catalyst that brought the idea for this show to life. They already had the idea for the show and originally thought about using ‘The Lovin Spoonful’ band to play the lead rolls, but they signed a record deal before the show could sign them. Davy Jones had played the roll of the artful dodger in ‘Oliver’ on Broadway and was someone the producers wanted, but they needed 3 more band members, so they ran this add in September of 1965…

“Madness!! Auditions. Folk & Roll Musicians-Singers for acting roles in new TV series. Running Parts for 4 insane boys, age 17-21. Want spirited Ben Frank’s types. Have courage to work. Must come down for interview.”

437 applied and below are the screen tests of the final eight contenders…all four monkeys and four more finalists. Note, there is no audio on the very first short clip. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63nhSFFFfJ4

Rare black and white footage of Mike Nesmith, Micky Dolenz, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones auditioning for the 60s hit NBC television program The Monkees.

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