Rhode Island Casting Call: Perform Shakespeare with a Twist in Outdoor Double Bill This Summer

Calling all non-union actors with a flair for comedy and Shakespeare!
The Colonial Theatre is casting for two original one-act productions: Shakespeare Shorts and Shakespeare’s Dead Dames, both part of a bold outdoor performance series in Westerly, Rhode Island this August. 🌳🎭

This isn’t your typical Bard fest — expect Shakespearean verse with sitcom vibes, fierce female leads, and characters reimagined with humor, depth, and sass.

Talent Application

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📍 Performance Details

Rehearsals: August 11–13, 2025
Performances: August 13–16, 2025
Locations: Wilcox Park & Babcock Theatre, Westerly, RI
Style: Outdoor staged readings (weather permitting)
Pay: 💰 $400 flat per actor (no housing/travel provided)

🎭 About the Productions

🌀 Shakespeare Shorts
A 30-minute whirlwind of Shakespeare’s greatest hits — scenes, sonnets, songs, and monologues. Selections are finalized during rehearsal, so bring your range!

🕯️ Shakespeare’s Dead Dames
Imagine: Lady Macbeth, Ophelia, Cleopatra, and others trapped in a surreal green room, unpacking their tragic roles with razor-sharp wit and The Women-style flair. It’s Shakespeare meets farce — high drama, high humor.

👥 Character Breakdown

Tamora – Commanding, unapologetic (35–50)
Joan of Arc – Fiery, bilingual (20s; French/English with accent)
Juliet – Over-the-top romantic (early 20s)
Lady Macbeth – Intense, unraveling (25–40)
Ophelia – Emotional, sings (20s)
Cleopatra – Alluring, regal (25–45)
The Director – A pompous British type (any gender/age)

🎤 Audition Details

Dates:
- Saturday, July 12, 2025 (11:00 AM–3:00 PM)
- Sunday, July 13, 2025 (11:00 AM–3:00 PM)
Location:
The Knickerbocker Café
35 Railroad Avenue, Westerly, RI 02891

🎬 What to Prepare

A short Shakespearean monologue, sonnet, or song 🎭
Be ready for cold readings from Shakespeare Shorts and Dead Dames (sides provided)
Strong comedic timing is a must — this Shakespeare’s got bite!

📝 Notes

Seeking diverse performers with a love for language, humor, and reimagined classics

Must be non-union

Must have local housing — no housing or travel stipends provided

All roles are paid