Theatre/Cinema Auditions
The Virginia Tech School of Performing Arts Presents a Season of Empowerment
Or, by Liz Duffy Adams
Directed by Amanda Nelson
Auditions: Tuesday, November 28/Callbacks Thursday, November 30
Or, is perhaps best described as Restoration comedy meets farce. A reflection on identity and role playing, the work tells a story of the British playwright and spy Aphra Behn.
While set in the Restoration period, the play weaves elements and themes from the 1660s, the 1960s, and today. It’s at once Restoration bawdy and 1960s groovy. The quick pace of the play demands its performers to deliver both verbal wit and physical gags.
Several characters are historical figures, including the playwright Aphra Behn; King Charles II; Nell Gwynne, famous for being among the first of the Restoration actresses and infamous for being the mistress of Charles II; and William Scot, a spy and one-time partner of Behn. The cast of three is made up of one male and two female actors. Together, this trio plays all seven roles: Aphra Behn (described as a woman in her late 20s to late 30s); Charles II (similar age to the actress playing Aphra); a Jailer; William Scot (same age as Charles); Nell Gwynne (young woman in her 20s); Maria (servant character); and Lady Davenant (an aristocrat). The male actor plays the roles of Charles and William; one of the female actors plays Aphra Behn; and the other plays the roles of Nell, Maria, and Lady Davenant (and the role of the jailer).
Rehearsal and Performance Schedule
Rehearsals will begin Tuesday, January 16 and will typically be held Monday - Friday between the hours of 6:00-10:00pm and on one weekend afternoon between 12:00pm-4:00pm. Tech week will include one full day rehearsal on February 17th.
We will perform the show February 20-24 in the Studio Theatre at Virginia Tech, Tuesday through Saturday will feature evening performances at 7:30pm. Saturday will also have a matinee at 2:00pm.
Content Notice: Actors may be called to kiss and/or embrace in the production. All intimacy will be choreographed.
Cast Size: 3 actors (playing a total of 7 roles)
When will auditions be held?
Audition: Tuesday, November 28 6pm-10pm
Callbacks: Thursday, November 30 6pm-10pm
*If you are unable to attend the audition, please contact Leah Tucker to arrange an alternative audition time: leahtucker@vt.edu.
Where will auditions be held?
T201 in Theatre 101, 200 College Avenue, Blacksburg
What do I need to prepare for my audition?
For your audition, please prepare a 1-2 minute monologue. The monologue does not have to be memorized and may be a short poem or story. Cold readings from the play will be provided at the audition. Please dress to move! It is highly recommended that you read the play ahead of your audition. Copies of the play are available to be checked out with Stacy Blackburn in the Production Office, Henderson 303.
How do I sign up for an audition time?
To sign up for an audition, please complete the online form or scan the QR code below.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the show's director: Amanda Nelson amandajnelson@vt.edu or stage manager, Leah Tucker leahtucker@vt.edu
