Theatre Up Holding Open auditions for “Something’s Rotten” in Littleton, New Hampshire
Type: Theater
Location: Littleton, New Hampshire
Theatre Up is located in Littleton, New Hampshire.
“Something Rotten”
The Story: Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of that Renaissance rock star known as William Shapespeare. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. But amidst the scandalous excitement of opening night, the Bottom Brothers realize that reaching the top means being true to thine own self, and all that jazz.
What we’re looking for: This fun musical has opportunities for a huge variety of talented performers. Seeking Actors, Singers, & Dancers of all experience levels with an excitement for theatre, desire to have fun, and drive to work hard. We will be casting mostly adults but may cast some teens 16 and older. All roles are open.
Looking for more Theater Auditions? See our Theater section.
Character Breakdown – “Something Rotten!”
Theatre UP welcomes actors of all ethnicities, identities, and abilities to audition for any role. If the script requires specific character traits, they will be noted in the descriptions below. Performers must be 16+ to audition. Age ranges listed are guidelines and do not determine final casting.
Principal Roles
Nick Bottom – A struggling playwright desperate to outshine William Shakespeare. Nick is determined, hot-headed, and willing to take extreme measures for success. Strong comedic timing and vocal ability required. Tap dancing is a plus.
- Gender: Male
- Age Range: 30-45
- Vocal Range: A2 – G4
Nigel Bottom – Nick’s younger brother and writing partner. Shy, idealistic, and deeply passionate about poetry and theater. He falls for Portia and gains confidence through love and creativity. Seeking a strong comedic actor with excellent vocal ability.
- Gender: Male
- Age Range: 25-40
- Vocal Range: Eb3 – A4
Bea – Nick’s wife and the true backbone of their household. Clever, independent, and determined to prove her worth, even disguising herself as a man to work. Requires strong comedic timing and vocal ability.
- Gender: Female
- Age Range: 30-45
- Vocal Range: D3 – D5 (Belter)
Portia – A sweet, quirky Puritan girl who falls for Nigel. Her love for poetry and Shakespeare leads her to rebel against her strict upbringing. Seeking a comedic actress with strong vocal skills.
- Gender: Female
- Age Range: 20-35
- Vocal Range: G3 – F#5
William Shakespeare – The flamboyant and egotistical “rock star” of the Renaissance. Charismatic, larger-than-life, and adored by all. Must have strong comedic chops and a dynamic pop/rock vocal ability. Tap dancing is a plus.
- Gender: Male
- Age Range: 30-45
- Vocal Range: Ab2 – Ab4
Nostradamus – A slightly unhinged soothsayer who predicts the creation of musical theater… though not always accurately. Must have excellent comedic timing and strong movement skills.
- Gender: Male (Could be played by a woman)
- Age Range: 35-60
- Vocal Range: C2 – A4
Brother Jeremiah – Portia’s strict and judgmental Puritan father who sees the theater as sinful. A commanding presence with strong comedic ability.
- Gender: Male (Could be played by a woman)
- Age Range: 40-65
- Vocal Range: G3 – G4
Supporting Roles
Lord Clapham – A refined and influential theater patron. (Could be played as Lady Clapham.)
Shylock – A Jewish investor financing Nick and Nigel’s play. Witty and business-savvy.
Minstrel – The show’s charismatic narrator. (Could be played by a woman.)
- Vocal Range: C#3 – A4
Ensemble & Featured Roles
The ensemble is a vibrant part of Something Rotten!, with many small speaking and solo singing roles. Ensemble members may be cast in multiple roles, including:
- Bottom’s Troupe (Peter Quince, Tom Snout, Robin, etc.)
- The Bard Boys (Shakespeare’s fan club)
- Puritans
- Townspeople (Psychic Woman, Astrologer, Foreman, Waitress, Doorman, Panicked Woman, Bar Patrons, etc.)
- The Crowd/Chorus
- Renaissance Writers (Francis Bacon, Walter Raleigh, etc.)
- Tap-Dancing Eggs & Characters from Famous Musicals
See: https://us.cast98.com/studios/theatreupnh
Ensemble groupings will be determined based on casting. If you love comedy, dancing, and high-energy musical numbers, this is the show for you!