Prince (October 2, 1983) “Purple Rain” Film Update – Star Tribune

A local production update in the Star Tribune detailing plans for Prince’s first feature film Purple Rain, including the start of filming on November 1, auditions for dancers and extras at First Avenue, and an anticipated April 1984 release

Publication: Star Tribune

Date: Sunday, October 2, 1983 Country: United States

Section / Pages: In the wings / Film Title: In the wings (Purple Rain production details)

THE STORY

The article announces that Purple Rain, starring Prince as an up-and-coming rock performer, will begin seven weeks of filming on November 1. Producer Mike Frankovich Jr. notes the use of Minnesota’s fall scenery for outdoor shots and First Avenue for much of the indoor filming. Auditions for dancers and extras are scheduled for Tuesday at First Avenue (Plaza 3 handling casting). The piece highlights the involvement of The Time, Vanity 6, and Dez Dickerson’s band, and mentions the fast-tracked post-production schedule.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This update appeared as pre-production wrapped and filming was about to begin on Purple Rain. First Avenue’s central role in both the story and real-life production further cemented its legendary status in Prince lore. The rapid timeline (filming through late 1983, release in summer 1984) underscores the ambitious momentum behind the project.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Purple Rain film production and casting update

Era: Purple Rain pre-production (1983) Tone: Informative and locally proud Photography: Filmstrip graphic header Visual Motifs: Standard “In the wings” column layout with production-focused text

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Early details on Purple Rain filming schedule and locations

• Open casting calls for local extras and dancers at First Avenue

• Growing excitement in Minneapolis for

RELATED MATERIAL

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