Watch this space for audition details

Auditions: Monday, December 9 at 6 p.m.

or

Wednesday, December 11 at 6 p.m.

at the WCP/BHCT Walker Building

Production Dates: February 28, March 1, 6, 7 & 8 at 7 pm, and March 2 & 9 at 2 pm

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SYNOPSIS:

in 1905, New York City, Esther, a Black seamstress, is in great demand for the intimate apparel she creates for clients who range from wealthy socialites to working-class individuals. Though leading a life that provides joy to so many, she remains lonely and longing for a husband and a future. Seeking love and romance, she eventually embarks on a letter-writing relationship with a mysterious suitor laboring on the Panama Canal. Esther explores companionship and self-worth while she works through one of life’s adventures.

 

ROLES: Ages and Other Demographics are considered reference points for the characters’ identifications, not the actors.

• Esther - African-American, Female (age: 35) - Determined seamstress, who is relatively plain-mannered, beginning a new chapter of life *This role involves choreographed physical intimacy*

• Mrs. Dickson – African-American, Female (age: 50’s) - Widowed manager of the boarding house where Esther lives.

• Mrs. Van Buren – American, Female - (age: 30’s) - Romantic, socialite who is a client and friend of Esther. *This role involves revealing costumes*  *This role involves choreographed physical intimacy*

• Mr. Marks - Romanian, Male (age: 30’s) - Fabric Salesman who practices hasidic judaism. Mr. Marks is friends with Esther.

• Mayme - African-American, Female (age: 30’s) - Piano player and sex worker. She orders her lingerie through her friend, Esther. *This role involves revealing costumes*  *This role involves choreographed physical intimacy*

• George – Barbadian, Male – (age: 30’s) Laborer building the Panama Canal. He initiates correspondence with Esther. Their relationship grows past pen-pal and he travels to New York City. *This role involves choreographed physical intimacy*

 

AUDITION DETAILS - IMPORTANT THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT AUDITIONS AND CASTING

• ​Content Warning for Language and Experience -* * Note: All theatrical forms of intimacy will be choreographed * *

• Must be 18 years of age or older to audition.

• Initial Audition will consist of three parts: 

• Fill Out Audition “About-Me”

• Warm-Up with Brief Movement & Vocal Exercise

• Acting Audition: Perform cold readings of selections from the show.

 

GENERAL FAQS

WCP/BHCT is committed to a policy of open auditions. Our success depends on the full participation of talented and committed people, regardless of their race, creed, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Scripts will be available for a week-long perusal with a $10 deposit. Please stop by the WCP/BHCT Walker Building during normal business hours (Tuesday-Friday, 11am-5pm) to pick up a script. 

 

Getting involved in a production is no small commitment and while we encourage and welcome one and all, it’s best to fully understand the time commitment and the challenges you may meet if you or a family member gets involved. 

 

We will begin having rehearsals around TBA. When we begin rehearsing, we will meet roughly 3-5 times per week; we will meet more often the closer we get to production. Please bring all conflicts to auditions in order to fill out your personal conflict schedule.

 

Each rehearsal is about 2-3 hours. Occasionally we meet for a longer time but we always strive to use the time wisely and efficiently. 

The final technical and dress rehearsals are considered mandatory since we need to make sure one and all are fully prepared for our audiences. In order to meet that need, everyone involved needs to be present and doing their job/role. 

Please contact Alan at alan.malone@wcpbhct.org or the director graceschoenthal@gmail.com if you have any questions or concerns.