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Theater Casting Call for "Shakespeare in Love" Play

Victoria, BC, Canada
ID: 302663Exp: 2/9/2026
Description:

ONLY LOCAL TALENT WILL BE ACCEPTED. Seeking perfomers for "Shakespeare in Love" play. Please, see the details below. About the play: Synopsis: Young Will Shakespeare has writer’s block, that is, until he finds his muse… the feisty, brilliant and beautiful Viola. This crafty young woman will stop at nothing (including breaking the law) to appear in his next play. Against a bustling background of mistaken identity, ruthless scheming and backstage theatrics, Will’s love for Viola quickly blossoms, inspiring him to write his greatest romantic masterpiece. Additional information: Show dates: May 20 to June 7, 2026. Bring a resume or be prepared to complete a form which includes your name, contact information, theatrical experience, training, and any special skills. Juggling, fencing, mime, clown work, playing a musical instrument, singing, are all skills we’d love to know about. Please attach a clear recent photo (any size) to your resume. During your scheduled audition time you will be asked to do a cold read from a section of the script chosen by the director. The script will be provided and may not be the character you are hoping to play. No accents are required. People who are asked to attend a callback may be asked to come back for a specific role, but consideration will not be limited to that role. Please note, you must be available during the rehearsal period and for every performance. If interested, please apply.

20 role s

Will Shakespeare (Romeo)Male25-35 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. Passionate young playwright, searching for true inspiration. Charismatic, intelligent, exudes cocky confidence when not brooding over his writer’s block.

Viola/Thomas Kent (Romeo, Juliet)Female20-30 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. A young noble who dreams of becoming an actor. Viola risks everything by disguising herself as a man to perform, illegally, in Will’s latest play. Rebellious and passionate, playful, and determined.

HensloweMale40-70 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. The harried owner of the Rose Theatre which will present Shakespeare’s new comedy…if it’s ever written!

BurbageMale35-55 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. Lead actor and rival theatre owner, bold and flamboyant, competing to produce Shakespeare’s work. Charismatic performer with flair. Instigates a sword fight with Will.

Kit MarloweMale25-35 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. Will’s closest friend and more successful rival is encouraging and supportive. Smooth, charming, and confident.

Lord WessexMale30-45 y.o.All ethnicities

Principal. Insufferable noble engaged to Viola for her father’s money. Smarmy to the Queen but hateful to everyone else. Aristocratic and commanding. Instigates a sword fight with Will.

NurseFemale45-65 y.o.All ethnicities

Featured Character. Viola’s devoted confidante and guardian, offering guidance and comic wisdom. Maternal, quick-witted, and protective.

Fennyman (Apothecary)Male35-55 y.o.All ethnicities

Featured Character. A producer – aka “the money.” A ruthless loan shark, he is imperious and intimidating but his burgeoning theatrical ambitions result in a charming transformation.

Ned (Mercutio)Male25-40 y.o.All ethnicities

Featured Character. Renowned actor Ned Alleyn is the lead actor and manager of the Admiral’s Men, the company of players presenting Will’s newest play. Pompous, self-absorbed, and a bit reckless.

Queen Elizabet/MollyFemale50-70 y.o.All ethnicities

Stern monarch and shrewd arbiter of theatre. Delivers her proclamations with droll humour and sharp insight. She is a regal and daunting presence. Molly is a comic tavern wench.

Tilney/Sir Robert de LessepsMale18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

A strict Master of the Revels who despises all players/Viola’s stern father.

Sam (Juliet/Proteus)Male18-24 y.o.All ethnicities

Enthusiastic actor who portrays Juliet in Romeo & Juliet and a charming and energetic ensemble presence.

Bartender/OfficiantFemale18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Fast-talking comic roles and ensemble presence.

Mistress Quickly/KateFemale18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Fast-talking comic roles and ensemble presence.

Ralph/Catling (Juliet’s Nurse/Petruchio)Male18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

A tavern server and aspiring actor who plays Juliet’s Nurse and Petruchio in Romeo and Juliet as well as ensemble roles.

Wabash (Valentine)Male18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Earnest actor with crippling stage fright, and ensemble versatility. Endearing and adaptable. Plays Valentine in Two Men of Verona.

Lambert/Nol (Benvolio/Sampson)Male20-45 y.o.All ethnicities

Actors in Romeo and Juliet and lively and flexible ensemble performer.

Frees/Adam/BoatmanBoth genders18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Actors in Romeo and Juliet and lively and flexible ensemble performer.

Robin (Proteus/Lady Capulet)Both genders18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Actor in Romeo and Juliet and lively and flexible ensemble performers.

Peter (Tybalt)Male18-96 y.o.All ethnicities

Actor in Romeo and Juliet and lively and flexible ensemble performers.