Auditions: Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike

We are delighted to announce that our autumn production at Theatre@41 will be the hit Broadway comedy, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike by Christopher Durang, directed by Jim Paterson.

Playing with classic Chekhovian situations, but taking them in hilarious new directions that anyone can enjoy, the play tells the story of Vanya and Sonia, who live a quiet life in the Pennsylvania farmhouse where they grew up. But their peace is shattered when their movie star sister Masha returns unannounced with her twentysomething toyboy Spike. A weekend of rivalry, regret and raucousness begins…

This is a brilliantly funny play, with six very different roles that are a treat for comic actors who enjoy scratching past the surface to find the sadness underneath – offering the opportunity for “comic acting raised to the level of high art” (New York Times).

CHARACTERS

• Vanya (M, 50s) – Resigned to his life, more or less, at least compared to Sonia
• Sonia (F, early 50s) – Vanya’s adopted sister who lives with him. Discontented, upset, regretful
• Masha (F, 50s) – Their sister. Glamorous and successful globetrotting actress
• Spike (M, 20s) – Aspiring actor, sexy, self-absorbed. Masha’s new companion. NB – Actor playing Spike needs to be physically fit and comfortable being in their underwear on stage
• Nina (F, early 20s) – Lovely, sincere, would-be actress. Starstruck and energetic
• Cassandra (F, any age) – Cleaning lady and soothsayer. Odd, very odd

AUDITION INFO

Auditions will take place at Southlands Methodist Church on:

• Thursday 14 July (7.30pm – 9.30pm)
• Sunday 17 July (1pm – 4pm)
• Tuesday 19 July (7pm – 9.30pm)

You do not need to prepare a monologue. We’ll ask you to perform an extract from the play with a partner, which will be supplied in advance. The play is set in Pennsylvania and you will need to be able to perform (or have ability to learn) a decent American accent. We will provide you with a half hour audition time slot.

To register your interest, please email yorksettlementcommunityplayers@gmail.com with your name, which part you are interested in, a brief overview of your previous acting experience, and any commitments that would make you unavailable during the rehearsal and performance times (see below for more details). Please also specify if you are unable to make any of the audition dates.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFO

Rehearsals will run from Sunday 4 September, an average of twice during weekday evenings and one daytime on the weekend. Production week is w/c 31 October, with four performances from 3-5 November. You will need to join York Settlement Community Players in order to be part of the cast.

We can’t wait to hear from you!