Performers Needed for "Gem Of The Ocean" Play
The company is holding auditions for August Wilson’s "GEM OF THE OCEAN" and looking for performers, please see the details below. About the project: Set in 1904 Pittsburgh, Gem of the Ocean is the first chronological installment of August Wilson’s Century Cycle. The play centers on Aunt Ester, a 285-year-old spiritual guide, and her home at 1839 Wylie Avenue—a sanctuary for souls seeking redemption. As Citizen Barlow arrives in search of salvation, the household is drawn into a journey that spans history, memory, and myth Rate: This is a volunteer community theater production. Non-Equity. There is no pay. Additional info: RUN: February 21 – March 21, 2026 Fridays & Saturdays 8pm, Sundays at 2pm. Special performances on Thursday and Sunday nights may be added for private parties and special events. REHEARSALS: First Read-Through: Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, Noon – 4pm Regular Rehearsal: Starting Jan. 5th: Mondays – Thursdays, 7pm -10pm Saturdays, 11am – 4pm Possible Sundays, 6pm – 9pm TBD Bring a headshot and resume. Please prepare a monologue from an August Wilson play. Sides for cold readings will be available at the auditions for those without a monologue prepared.
7 roles
A spiritual matriarch; commanding and wise.
A young man seeking redemption; earnest and haunted.
A former conductor on the Underground Railroad; fiery and proud.
Aunt Ester’s housekeeper and protégé; strong-willed and compassionate.
Black Mary’s brother, a strict lawman; complex and authoritative.
Caretaker of Aunt Ester’s home, grounded and loyal.
A traveling peddler; observant and affable.