Shakespeare theater auditions coming to the Dakotas.
The South Dakota Shakespeare Festival (SDSF) and North Dakota Shakespeare Festival (NDSF) are thrilled to announce auditions for their collaborative production of “The Merchant of Venice” by William Shakespeare to be presented at Vermillions Prentis Park this coming summer.
The North Dakota Shakespeare Festival (NDSF) and the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival (SDSF)are vibrant celebrations of Shakespeare’s timeless works, enriching the cultural landscape of the Great Plains region. NDSF.
Open Auditions in Oklahoma, Alabama and Texas for Shakespeare in the Canyon
“The Merchant of Venice” stands as one of William Shakespeare’s most controversial yet compelling plays, blending elements of comedy, drama, and romance. Set in 16th-century Venice, the story follows the intertwining fates of several characters, including the wealthy merchant Antonio, the cunning moneylender Shylock, and the young Venetian nobleman Bassanio. At its heart, the play delves into themes of love, loyalty, greed, and justice, exploring the complexities of human nature and societal prejudices. Central to the plot is the infamous bond between Antonio and Shylock, which escalates into a high-stakes legal battle with profound moral implications.
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As part of their longstanding tradition of offering free Shakespeare in the Park, SDSF and NDSF are seeking a diverse ensemble of performers. Professional actors and teaching artists from both the Great Plains region and across the nation are encouraged to audition for this unique opportunity. The five-week contract will commence on May 13 in Vermillion, South Dakota, before traveling to Grand Forks, North Dakota, and concluding on June 16.
Visitors to www.northdakotashakespeare.com can explore the festival’s rich history, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved.
Similarly, SDSF is a cornerstone of the theatrical community in South Dakota, known for its dynamic performances and commitment to accessibility. With a focus on presenting free Shakespearean productions in outdoor settings, SDSF captivates audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Under the leadership of Executive Artistic Director Rebecca Bailey, SDSF continues to elevate the arts scene in the region. For more information on upcoming productions, educational initiatives, and ways to support SDSF’s mission, visit www.sdshakespearefestival.org.
All roles are paid, and artists selected will be contracted with both companies for the duration of the production. Local auditions will take place at the University of South Dakota, Department of Theatre, on Sunday, March 3, from 2-5 p.m. Auditionees are requested to prepare two contrasting Shakespeare monologues.
The play will be staged in Vermillion from June 6-9. To schedule an audition appointment in Vermillion or submit a video audition, please email sdshakespearefestival@gmail.com.
The role of Shylock has already been cast. “The Merchant of Venice” will be directed by Rebecca Bailey, the Executive Artistic Director of SDSF since 2023. With an MFA in Directing from USD and previous experience directing both SDSF and NDSF productions, Bailey brings a wealth of expertise to the project.
For more information on the North Dakota Shakespeare Festival, visit www.northdakotashakespeare.com. To learn more about the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival, visit www.sdshakespearefestival.org.
