Transformers at UPENN in June

The Daily Pennsylvania is reporting that the shoot for Transformers II will begin at the University of Pennsyvania starting June 12.

University spokeswoman Lori Doyle explained that filming would tentatively begin around June 12 with scenes using the exterior of the Quad.

According to Doyle, the extensive project is expected to involve about 200 people, 25 tractor-trailer trucks and cranes.

"They have their own landscaping people, they bring in their own catering, it's a huge operation," she said.

In addition, scenes will be shot at Psi Upsilon Tau fraternity house, better known as "The Castle," and possibly on Locust Walk and Spruce Street, Doyle said.

Director Michael Bay was Undergraduate Senior Vice-President of Wesleyan University's Psi Upsilon chapter during his time in college.

Penn's Office of University Communications was unable to divulge specific plot elements as the result of a non-disclosure agreement signed with DreamWorks Pictures.

Tryouts for extras will take place this weekend in South Philadelphia.

Heery Casting, run by founder and director Diane Heery, will host an open casting call on Saturday in the Bullies bar at the Wachovia Spectrum, looking for background talent to be used in the highly-anticipated film.

According to the casting agency's website, casting professionals will be seeing members of the Screen Actors Guild as well as non-union men and women ages 18-70 - particularly college-age men and women - for scenes to be shot next month in Philadelphia and Princeton, N.J.