Casting Performers for "Franklin's Key" Play

A brilliant, independent-minded young inventor. Adventurous and resourceful. The gears in her brain are constantly turning. Not much patience for stupidity—even less patience for her brother. A methodical thinker and certified puzzle master with a nose for sniffing out funny business, Temple is the girl you call to crack a code. Forever a skeptic, sort of punky-nerdy. ACTIVELY SEEKING ACTORS OF COLOR IN THIS ROLE.

Gravekeeper at Ben Franklin’s grave. At first glance, Fordhook seems like a self-taught historian and Benjamin Franklin enthusiast. But, in actuality, he is an evil historian and Benjamin Franklin enthusiast! Charismatic, quirky, and prone to excessive monologuing, Fordhook becomes obsessed with a secret plan to rule the city. He once belonged to the New Prometheans, a centuries-old secret society of scientists, but was kicked out for his erratic behavior.

Temple’s ex-boyfriend. The security guard at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A good-hearted guy, he is sweet and optimistic, but a bit hapless. Other than Temple breaking up with him, not too many bad things have happened to him. Out of his league in some of the more scientific conversations. Richard is consistently trying to do the right thing, but not always sure what that is. (This actor will also be in the movement ensemble of Gogglers in selected scenes).

Curator of Historical Technology at Philadelphia Museum of Art. When we meet Diane, she is the sunny and verbose judge of a high school STEM competition, but we quickly learn that she is cunning and full of surprises. Has a mischievousness that turns into magic at times. Has clearly done years of deep research on Benjamin Franklin and his energy experiments, but comes across more political than professorial. The Elizabeth Warren-esque leader of the New Prometheans.

This actor will play multiple smaller roles: Jimmy (age 21) is a hapless intern who maintains the Wanamaker Organ but is sent on secret missions he is not qualified for. Pimply, awkward, overgrown teenager who is always in hot water. Stephen Armantrout is a husky, gravel-toned and mustachioed blacksmith/inventor who builds all the big machines and weapons for the New Promethean Society. He is gruff but lovable. (This actor will also be in the movement ensemble of Gogglers in selected scenes).

Inspired in part by the Blob-men in Miyazaki’s Howl’s Moving Castle, the Gogglers are the functionaries who animate the mystery beneath Philadelphia in Franklin’s Key. They are also puppeteers who animate automatons (18th-century wooden robots run by clockwork) and other effects. Must be able to lift 40 lbs; must be comfortable doing weight-sharing movement work.

Looking for movers skilled in mime, puppetry, object manipulation, or contemporary dance. These parts are mainly non-speaking roles. At least one of the Gogglers will provide percussive music / live foley effects from stage and should have a strong sense of rhythm. Ability to read music is a plus but not required.