The response to an open call for voice actors to audition for a Hawaiian language version of the hit Disney animated film “Moana” has been strong, according to the University of Hawaii’s Academy for Creative Media.

More than 140 submissions have been received from individuals hoping to score one of 32 speaking parts on the project, which is being created by the University of Hawaii in collaboration with Walt Disney Studios. The deadline to submit an audition video for consideration was Nov. 17.

“We are so thrilled that we have the opportunity to make a Hawaiian version of the film,” said “Moana” producer Osnat Shurer in a release. “To now make a Hawaiian language version, after recently collaborating on Tahitian and Te Reo Māori language versions, goes beyond any dreams we had for the film’s impact within communities that deeply inspired the movie.”

Under the direction of the UHWO Creative Media program, the Hawaiian language version of Moana will also include the efforts of UHWO Hawaiian language professor Puakea Nogelmeier, UH-Manoa professor of Hawaiian theatre Haili’opua Baker and ethnomusicologist Aaron Sala. Honolulu Community College’s Jon Ross will serve as sound engineer, while UHWO’s Heather Giugini and Sharla Hanaoka will serve as producers in cooperation with Disney Character Voices International senior vice president Rick Dempsey.

Casting for the Hawaiian language version of “Moana” is being managed by local casting director Rachel Sutton. Visit acmsystem.hawaii.edu for more details about the project.