“84, Charing Cross Road” Auditions

Description

Sign up for an audition time.

“84, Charing Cross Road” by Helene Hanff, adapted for the stage by James Roose-Evans, is a charming, bittersweet comedy based on the extraordinary true story of the remarkable relationship that developed between a vivacious New York writer and a London antiquarian bookseller. The soulmates’ relationship, portrayed over the course of 20  years, 1949-1969, is built upon their mutual appreciation of the writings of revered thinkers and artists within the annals of humankind.

Mary Cutler, the director of The Phipps’ productions of “A Murder is Announced” and “Making God Laugh,” is looking for actors suited to the roles listed:

Helene is a true New Yorker, working author, and an aficionada/collector of classical literature. Frank is a quite proper Londoner and chief bookseller at Marks & Co. The roles of Helene and Frank are an acting challenge, requiring experienced performers who can play ages 40-60, with good ears for accents, resilience in line learning, and the ability to connect in an acting relationship without ever seeing the eyes of their partner.

Also needed are four supporting women: Cecily, Megan, Maxine, and Joan; and three supporting men: George, William, and Thomas, the staff of Marks & Co., who may be played by younger and older actors. These characters can be actors of any experience level, require an English accent, and must enjoy lots of “coming-and-going” acting work in portraying 20 years of story time.

Auditionees will read from the script, which will be available one-half hour before auditions begin. Actors should bring a resume and headshot, if available, and identify their rehearsal conflicts.

Rehearsals will start early in order to take generous holiday breaks. Rehearsals are planned on Monday through Thursday evenings, in addition to either Friday evenings or Saturday mornings, depending upon cast preference, beginning November 5. Nine performances will be given January 18-February 3 on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. as well as Sundays at 2 p.m. in the Black Box Theater.

For further information, contact the center at 715.386.2305.