AUDITIONS
When: Thursday, November 2nd and Friday, November 3rd @6:30pm
Where: Sloan Studio (Todd 107) in the Todd Union Building; University of Rochester River Campus.
To schedule an audition, please fill out the online audition form bellow, or contact us at hello@wallbyrd.com
Audition Sign-Up
WallByrd Theatre Co. has openings for performers and technicians in the Rochester and surrounding areas for our Winter production of William Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. This production is scheduled to be presented in late January and early February.
This will be a non-equity production.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCTION-
The Taming of the Shrew is a mischievous mash-up of classic Commedia dell'arte, modern mime, and clowning techniques. Set in a dreamscape and inspired by works like Slava Snow Show and Little Nemo, we are seeking a true acting ensemble and artists ready to experiment, play, and learn together.
Stunt work, tricks, and a sense of play are all a major plus.
What you will need
Movement cloths
Your favorite prepared monologue (any style)
32 bars of music (optional, but highly encouraged)
CASTING-
Listed below are the roles with the age and gender assignments traditionally suggested by the text.
Please Note: This will be a color-blind casting audition.
This is a non-equity production.
Rehearsals are evenings and weekends beginning in November, 3-6 days per week, depending on the demands of the role.
The Originals
BAPTISTA Minola - [Female, 30+] Traditionaly a male role. "Mother" and rich citizen of Padua.
KATHERINA (KATE) Minola - [Female, teen-30's] Elder daughter of Baptista and the shrew of the title. This is a very physically demanding role.
BIANCA Minola - [Female, teen-20's] Younger daughter of Baptista. Singing is required.
PETRUCCIO - [Male, teen's-30's] a gentleman of Verona. Boorish and roguish, this is a very physically demanding role.
TRANIO - [Male, teen-30's] Friend of Lucentio.
LUCENTIO - [Male, teen-30's] Suitor to Bianca.
Some New Faces
The ARLECCHINO - [Male, open] The leader of the acting troup, this character will play many parts throughout the show. Musical instrument and singing a plus.
The FOOLS - [open] An ensemble of 2-4 clowns, these characters will play many parts throughout the show. Singing is required.
The MINSTREL - [open] Few speeking lines but lots of stage time. Musical instrument and singing are required.
FAQ
What will happen at auditions?
Auditions will be held on November 2nd and 3rd. Call backs (if needed) will be held on November 5th at the same time. Auditions will include some form of warm up and/or improv games followed by prepared monologue. Callbacks (if needed) will be held on November 5th. As scary as they are, we hope to make auditions as laid back and smooth as possible. We want to see you at your best, not under the most stress.
What do I need to bring?
In addition to your headshot and resume, auditioners are encouraged to bring a prepared monologue of their choice (contemporary and/or period appropriate). Be sure to dress comfortably as there will be a movement and improv portion of the audition. We also ask you to bring a list of all rehearsal conflicts. We do our best to work around conflicts, but only if they are identified early.
Do I need to have any experience with Shakespeare or other Jacobean theatre in order to audition?
No. While this is a very rich text, there is no special training required in order to unlock it. All you need is an open mind, and a sense of play.
I won't be available during the audition dates- can I still audition?
Yes! We feel strongly about giving as many artists a chance to participate as possible. If you are unavailable for the audition dates then we will do our best to work out an alternative time for you. We will also accept an acting reel or digital video submission, however we always prefer to see you in person. Just email us as soon as possible and we will work to find something that works for everyone.
I'm not a singer- should I still audition? And if I do, will I have to sing?
For some roles singing will be a required component of casting, but not for all. That said, in true clowning fashion we are asking everyone to bring their all and show us what you are working with. Beyond just singing, there is a lot we can do to play with sounds and voice qualities in the show. The sky is the limit!
If you don't have 32 bars of music don't stress! You can opt-out or even simply rock-out to "Happy Birthday". No stress. Just fun.