Shuswap Theatre is looking for eight people to perform in Norm Foster’s comedy Opening Night.
Jack and Ruth Tisdale ‘celebrate’ their 25th wedding anniversary by attending a new theatre production.
Trouble is, while Ruth is greatly enamoured of the evening, Jack would much prefer to be at home watching the World Series.
Described as a “funny, gentle look at human relationships,” Opening Night features events both on and off stage that alter the lives of all involved.
Foster is considered to be Canada’s most-produced playwright, and has had more than 40 plays produced on professional stages.
Frequently compared to American playwright Neil Simon, Foster pens plays that are known for their humour, accessibility, and insight into the everyday tribulations of life.
He is the recipient of the Los Angeles Drama-Logue Award for his play, The Melville Boys which would go on to be produced across Canada and in the United States, including a well-received run Off Broadway in New York.
First produced in 1989 by the Piggery Theatre, North Hatley, Que., Opening Night would become Foster’s signature play, and the one which would bring his name to the forefront of Canadian theatre.
The Shuswap Theatre production will be directed by Paul Kirkwood-Hackett. The play will open Friday, Feb. 23 and play weekends (Thursday through Sunday) until Saturday, March 10.
Eight cast members are needed:
Five men and three women are to be cast: Six of the eight characters are in their mid to late 40s – Jack Tisdale, a varnish salesman; Ruth Tisdale an accountant; Richard Hyde-Finch, the theatre director; Cilla Fraser, Richard’s girlfriend; Michael Craig, a rarely employed actor and Clayton Fry, the lead actor in the play within a play.
Two performers in their early 20s are also required – Libby Husniak, an ingenue in the play within a play and Tom Delaney, a waiter and aspiring actor.
Auditions will be held at the theatre, 41 Hudson Ave NW from 6 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 5 and Wednesday, Dec. 6.
Those who audition will be asked to take part in theatre games and to read selected scenes from the play in pairs and groups.
Rehearsals begin Monday, Jan. 8. For more information, visit www.shuswaptheatre.com.
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