Colonial Theatre Seeks Non-Union Actors for Outdoor Shakespeare Double Bill in Westerly, RI
The Colonial Theatre is now accepting submissions for local, non-Union actors to perform in an outdoor staged reading of two original one-act productions: Shakespeare Shorts and Shakespeare’s Dead Dames. The project will run August 11–16, 2025, with rehearsals and performances scheduled in Westerly, Rhode Island.
Both plays require performers with strong comedic timing and comfort with Shakespearean text. Selected actors will appear in both productions. All roles are paid, with compensation based on an Equity scale, and participants must have local housing available, as no housing or travel stipends will be provided.
About the Productions:
Shakespeare Shorts – A 30-minute collage of scenes, sonnets, songs, and monologues drawn from the works of William Shakespeare. Final selections will be determined during rehearsals.
Shakespeare’s Dead Dames
Set in a surreal green room outside of time, six of Shakespeare’s most famous tragic heroines—Tamora, Joan of Arc, Juliet, Lady Macbeth, Ophelia, and Cleopatra—grapple with the roles they’ve been eternally cast in. This farcical one-act blends Shakespearean text with a modern, sitcom-style energy reminiscent of Chamber Music and The Women.
Performance Details:
- Rehearsal Dates: August 11–13, 2025
- Performance Dates: August 13–16, 2025
- Locations: Westerly Wilcox Park and Babcock Theatre
- Compensation: $400 flat rate per actor
- Performance Style: Outdoor staged readings (weather permitting)
Open Call Auditions:
Dates:
Saturday, July 12, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location:
The Knickerbocker Café
35 Railroad Avenue
Westerly, RI 02891
What to Prepare:
Actors should prepare a short Shakespearean piece—monologue, sonnet, or song. Cold readings from Shakespeare Shorts and Shakespeare’s Dead Dames may also be required. Sides will be provided at the audition.
Character Breakdown:
- TAMORA (Titus Andronicus) – Commanding and assertive; a dominant presence. (Female presenting, 35–50)
- JOAN OF ARC (Henry VI, Part 1) – Fiery and confused; must be comfortable performing in both English and French with a French accent. (Female presenting, 20s)
- JULIET (Romeo and Juliet) – Overly dramatic and hopelessly romantic. (Female presenting, early 20s)
- LADY MACBETH (Macbeth) – Intense and paranoid. (Female presenting, 25–40)
- OPHELIA (Hamlet) – Emotionally unstable with vocal range; singing ability required. (Female presenting, 20s)
- CLEOPATRA (Antony and Cleopatra) – Seductive, elegant, and regal. (Female presenting, 25–45)
- DIRECTOR – A self-important British theater director type. (Any gender/age)
Actors interested in a unique, fast-paced take on the Bard’s iconic characters are encouraged to attend this summer open call. Don’t miss your chance to bring these legendary women to life