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Created Date | May 16, 2023 | |
Expiration Date | June 15, 2023 | |
Posted by | Administrator | |
Country | United States | |
State | Illinois | |
City | Chicago | |
Location | Chicago | |
Project Type | Non-Equity Audition | |
Project Title | Wise Guys |
Description:
The Factory Theater is seeking actors for both main cast and understudy roles for Wise Guys, written by Chase Wheaton-Werle and directed by Becca Holloway.
The year is 0. A brand new star appears in the sky. And three religious scholars thrust together by fate must embark on a race against time to catch the birth of God (or, wait, is it the Son of God. Both? Neither?). But to get there, they'll have to endure the perilous deserts, cutthroat bandits, the mad puppet king of Judea, and most of all... each other. It's Bethlehem or Bust in a road trip comedy 2,023 years in the making.
We are looking for actors with a firm grasp of comedy, especially physical comedy (in the style of Mel Brooks, Dom DeLouise, Chris Farley). For the vibes of this show, think Blues Brothers meets History of the World Part 1. Please note: ensemble members will be playing multiple characters and may be asked to showcase different physicalities/voices for these roles.
Characters:
We are seeking to reflect the regions of the world in which this story takes place through our casting. With this in mind, please be sure to mention in your submission the role(s) you would like to be seen for.
With the exception of Adriano/Herod and Mary, we are considering all genders for any role, including the Wise Men. Do not feel the need to self-select based on gender.
Rhys/Reese (LATE 20S/EARLY 30S, ANY RACE, ANY GENDER) - Mousy, bookish, but enthusiastic and ambitious. In the midst of a crisis of faith. If Milo Thatch went into religious studies.
Adriano (MIDDLE AGED, but we will see actors of any age) - Witty, jaded, cynical, crotchety. Quietly carrying the burden of his own gripes with the church. If Mel Brooks were incredibly Italian (Track includes Herod)
Gaspar (INDIAN, the character's age is 60, but we will see actors of any age) - seemingly perpetually unfazed. Protective. Immovable in their faith. One of those super spiritual types.
Balthazar (NUBIAN, the character's age is 20, but we will see actors of any age) - Excited and excitable. Naive, eager, and a touch neurotic. Leo Bloom meets Donkey from Shrek
Melchior (PERSIAN, the character's age is 40, but we will see actors of any age) - Big straight man energy. Self important. On the brink of their one big break. Doesn't play well with others. Dry, sarcastic, and exasperated. Tulio from El Dorado meets Steve Martin in Planes Trains and Automobiles.
Herod (40S-50S, but we will see actors of any age) - Charismatic. Powerful. Deeply paranoid. Desperate for appreciation. Your best friend if he likes you.
Your worst nightmare if you sleight him. Zero Mostel, Nathan Lane meets Emperor Kuzco. (Track doubled with Adriano)
Gabriel (AGELESS, ANY RACE, ANY GENDER) - Can appear anywhere and as anyone. The immediate best friend and confidant of anyone they meet. Carries a glint of puckish playfulness. But most importantly, holds a genuine desire to connect with and help whomever they're talking to. Clarence from "It's a Wonderful Life" as played by Gene Wilder.
Ensemble tracks, featuring primary character description:
Jubair (and others) (MIDDLE EASTERN OR NON WHITE) - The Self-Proclaimed greatest thief of the Seven Sands. A real big guy with their posse behind them. If they could only keep them in line. Thinks they're a vicious jackal. More like a scrappy Pomeranian
Ubar (and others) (MIDDLE EASTERN OR NON WHITE) - a struggling entrepreneur trying to get their new business off the ground
Mary (and others) (MIDDLE EASTERN OR NON WHITE) - Chosen by God to bear His son, the savior of the world. No Pressure. Knows when to stand her ground and also when to let people in.
Pay: $150 Main Cast, $100 U/S
In-Person Callbacks will take place at The Factory Theater, 1623 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626
Rehearsals: 09/18-10/26
Tech: 10/29-11/02
Previews: 11/03-11/05
Opening: 11/10
Closing: 12/16
Rehearsals will take place at The Factory Theater Monday-Wednesday evenings and Saturday and Sunday mornings.
**There will be a guaranteed understudy performance**
Contact Info:
Please send your headshot and resume to casting@thefactorytheater.com. Please provide the role(s) you would like to read for and we will send sides. Video submissions will be accepted until 11:59 PM on Monday, May 29th. In-person callbacks will be held on Saturday, 06/10 from 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.
Website: www.thefactorytheater.com