Casting Call for "Much Ado About Nothing" Play
Audition for play "Much Ado About Nothing". Seeking actors who sing. Please see the details below. ONLY LOCAL TALENT WILL BE ACCEPTED. About the project: When many think of Shakespeare, they imagine a dimly lit reading room with academics discussing ruffs, bustles and pantaloons—well, this isn’t that. Our production of Much Ado About Nothing will be set in contemporary New Orleans at the family-owned Bar Messina. Our goal is to maintain the beauty of Shakespeare’s language while bringing modern energy to the classic romantic comedy. “There is a merry war” between the sharp-tongued Beatrice and Benedick, whose playful banter masks their growing affectin for each other while their friends conspire to bring them together. Meanwhile, the earnest Claudio and Hero’s romance is put to the test by a series of deceptions. With vibrant characters, clever plot twists, and a delightful mix of love and laughter, this romantic comedy promises an exhilarating ride from start to finish. Get ready to “laissez les bons temps roulez” or let the good times roll with clever quips, spirited antics, and a heartwarming finale! Rate: This is an unpaid, non-equity community theatre production. Additional info: Callbacks – January 28 – by invitation only; Performance Dates: March 29 - April 19. For this audition, please prepare a 1-1.5 minute classical monologue to present to the audition panel. If interested, please apply.
20 roles
General Manager of Bar Messina. ● Beatrice is a quick-witted, take-no-mess, strong and independent woman. She has dedicated herself to turning her family’s business, Bar Messina, into the best New Orleans offers. Because of this focus, she has turned away from romance, especially after her one-time fling with Benedick left her jaded. (The role will require on-stage intimacy)
Daughter of Leonato, favorite waitress of Bar Messina. ● Hero is a recent graduate of Xavier University. She is working part-time at Bar Messina while she applies for jobs. She is the epitome of the girl next door, a bit soft-spoken and shy but optimistic and hopeful. (The role will require on-stage intimacy)
Co-owner of Bar Messina; Hero's father. ● Leonato is a respected New Orleans businessman. He is a former marine and thus is known for having a soft spot for young soldiers coming home. He is a New Orleans native who knows how to throw a party.
Co-owner of Bar Messina; ● Sibling and business partner of Leonato
Bartender of Bar Messina. ● Margaret is a highly likable gossip with an eye for fashion. She’s a bit of a flirt and a great friend to Hero. (Ideally, an actress with dance abilities. The role will require onstage intimacy.)
A long-time waitress at Bar Messina. ● Ursula has worked with Bar Messina for so long that she is like a family member. She would do anything for Hero and Beatrice as if they were her own family. (Ideally, an actress with dance abilities)
Resident band/singer of Bar Messina. ● Balthasar is Bar Messina's resident singer. Throughout the show, she will sing music similar to “A Sunday King of Love.”
Busser/bar back of Bar Messina. ● Brief speaking role but will serve as an ensemble member, dancer and background actor.
Military officer; companion of Don Pedro. ● Benedick has a sincere fear of commitment. He and Beatrice dated some time ago, and although they were a perfect match and he led her to believe he was in love, he could not allow himself to commit to a long-term relationship. He enjoys the bickering/banter with Beatrice.
A young military officer and friend to Benedick. ● Claudio is young, hopeful, and easily influenced. The actor will have to manage the height of anger and the regret that comes with the consequences of his behavior. However, he must still be a sympathetic figure. (The actor should have the capacity to sing. The role will require on-stage intimacy.)
Ranking military officer. ● Don Pedro is the leader of our central band of soldiers. He was the group's commanding officer and suggested New Orleans and Bar Messina as the destination for their break. Don Pedro is gay and has a hostile relationship with his religiously conservative older half-brother, Don John, because of it.
The half-brother of Don Pedro. ● Don John has devoted himself to religious fundamentalism. His zeal began to create riffs with his family. He decided to join the military to make his family proud of him, only to have his gay, younger half-brother join the military too and outrank him. He wants to bring his brother down along with those who support him.
Follower of Don John. ● He is a devout new friend of Don John and a supporter of his plot to bring down Don Pedro. Although religious, he is willing to step across the line for what he deems the greater good. (The role will require on-stage intimacy.)
Follower of Don John. ● He is a longtime friend of Don John. While he shares Don John’s religious dogma, he is not as willing to push the line as Borachio.
The constable in charge of French Quarter security.
Dogberry's partner.
A watchman of the French Quarter.
Another watchman of the French Quarter. ● Classically, these characters are the clowns of the show. I envision this group to lean heavily into a Louisiana archetype. I’m open to anything from a group of country Cajuns from the bayous, a group of New Orleans street performers, a group of gossipy Creoles, etc. For audition purposes, make a big choice, stick to it, and show your comic chops.
A Catholic priest.
A New Orleans Police Department Officer.
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