Before we begin exploring the complexities of one of Shakespeare's later comedies, we must take on the process of auditioning actors for MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. While, somewhat tedious, auditions are one of my favorite aspects of the production process. The concept and visual pictures I have been putting together for months, can now start to come to life.
Over the next few weeks, many of you will come to know MUCH ADO's characters quite intimately. Of course, many actors and actresses will come in wanting one of the two most challenging, yet satisfying characters in all of Shakespeare (Beatrice and Benedick), but don't cut off your opportunities too quickly. Many of the male characters will likely be converted to female and some of the other male characters are great challenges in their own right. So many of Shakespeare's characters offer such fun and exhilarating development opportunities and if you truly want to do the show, you might not want to pass those up. This is a show that will offer actors much to do and enjoy while becoming part of it! For those who are unfamiliar with my plans for the characters, take a look:
PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS
Principal Cast will go into rehearsal the week of April 16.
Don Pedro - M - 30’s to 40’s
Beatrice - F - Early 30’s
Benedick - M - 30’s to 40’s
Hero - F - Late Teens to mid 20’s
Claudio - M - 20’s
Leonato / a - M/F – 40’s to 60’s
Antonio/a - M/F – 40’s to 50’s
Dogberry - F – 30’s to 50’s
Male and Female Understudy - We are casting one female and one male understudy to cover the principal roles.
FEATURED CHARACTERS
Featured Cast will go into rehearsal in May. They will not be called to all rehearsals
Don John - M – 20’s to 30’s
Conrade - M – 20’s to 30’s
Borachio - M – 20’s to 30’s
Verges - M/F – 20’s +
Ursula -F – 20’s to 30’s
Margaret - F - 20’s
Ensemble Characters
Ensemble Cast will go into rehearsal in May. They will not be called to all rehearsals
Friar Francis - M/F –30’s+
Balthasar - M/F – Teen to 30’s
Sexton - M/F – 20’s +
Messenger - M/F – Teen to 30’s
Watch - F – Late teens to 20’s
Musician and Singer - We are looking for at least one accomplished musician and / or singer to perform during most of the show.
During this production period, we will be discovering as much as we can about the 1920 - 1924 time period... through costume and props, research and activities that help us find the characters and atmosphere we all want to convey to our audience.
While, I am lucky enough to be able to secure the talents of Kelly Bennington, a wonderfully organized Assistant Director; Juliet Howard-Welch, a professional Stage Manager (New Orleans Shakespeare Festival / Dayton Opera --- and Equity Membership Candidate); and Susan Robert, my highly detail oriented costumer and a director in her own right... I do not have the luxury of the highly talented Set Designer I was blessed with for my last two shows (Geoffrey Moss), but never fear, I have a few ideas of my own and hopefully we shall muddle through.
With auditions just one week away, I am receiving many nervous questions from first time Shakespeare performers, as well as seasoned actors.... Just remember, give your first and best audition. I will always give you the opportunity to start again, if you need to and I am looking for what YOU can bring to the role -- not how Emma Thompson or Kenneth Branagh played them. Strong, articulate voices, creative readings and a fun personality. Be sure to visit the
audition event page, check out earlier blogs or
e-mail me with questions. You can also request a pdf version of the audition form
here. Bring yourself!
See you all on March 26 or 27!
