Description:

Raven Theatre is excited to announce self tape submissions for our upcoming production of Night Watch by Lucille Fletcher, Directed by Georgette Verdin.

What's more nightmarish: not being able to trust those around you... or not being able to trust yourself? Moonlit streets, a restless mind and a large window have become Elaine's nightly routine in her luxurious city townhouse. But insomnia is the least of her worries when a dead body appears in the window of an abandoned, squalid unit across the street. To make matters worse, the body disappears before her husband, best friend or maid have a chance to witness the atrocity. This suspenseful revival is filled to the brim with tricks and twists, leaving audiences on a psychological rollercoaster until the very. last. second.

Characters:
Note from our director: There can be a temptation when working inside the mystery/thriller genre to let melodrama creep in and I'd caution against it. It can give the sense of playing at the world and style rather than inside of them. The antidote being to trust the writing and bring full commitment and truthfulness to sustained heightened circumstances.

*Please note, the actors playing Elaine, John and Blanche should look like they're in their 30s. Each of them have lived full adult lives before the action of this play takes place so it's an important aspect of who they are.*

Elaine Wheeler: 30s, Wife, emotionally fragile and feels betrayed. Suspicious and haunted by a tragic past; Elaine looks for validation; when it is not forthcoming, she questions her sanity. Slowly builds up confidence as the play progresses.

John Wheeler: 30s, Elaine's husband. Stockbroker, businessman. Very practical and in charge of his home. Deals with all problems quickly and logically; dismissive of his wife's story, he is exasperated by her erratic behavior.

Blanche Cooke: 30s, Elaine's best friend. A nurse by training, she presents an efficient and tailored appearance. Currently a houseguest in the Wheeler townhouse, she is concerned for Elaine's mental health.

*played by the same actor*

​Vanelli: 30s-40s, Streetwise NYPD patrolman. Affable, has an eye for fine art. Impressed by the Wheelers' collection.

​Curtis Appleby: 30s-40s, Eccentric neighbor. Local busybody; particularly interested in the Wheeler home and what takes place there. Is especially fascinated by the subject of murder, a fascination that perhaps has become an obsession.

*played by the same actor*

​Dr. Tracey Lake: 40s-50s, Noted psychologist. Professional clinical demeanor. Observes Elaine; tries to gain her confidence.

Helga: 40s-50s, German maid. Was Elaine's maid for years before the Wheelers were married. Seems loyal to Elaine and distrustful of John.

*played by the same actor*

​Sam Hoke: 40s-50s, Owner of local deli. A large, shabby, working-class man. Talk of murder is hurting his business. Frustrated, angry, defensive... and perhaps a little nervous.

​Lieutenant Walker: 40s-50s, Homicide detective. Jaded and overworked, has no time for wild goose chases. Concerned only with doing the job.

All roles will be understudied

Pay: Equity: $385 weekly minimum (Tier 1) - rehearsal $276 weekly minimum (Tier 1) - performance; Non-Equity: $1000 stipend