Description:

The Young People's Theatre of Chicago announces auditions for the Chicago premiere of Wendy Kesselman's new one-act TYA version of The Diary of Anne Frank, directed by Artistic Director Randy White, assistant directed by Sam Shankman.

Seeking non-AEA actors of all backgrounds for principal and understudy positions, and strongly encourage performers of all ethnicities, ages, sizes, genders, and abilities to submit. Due to the content of the show, we are especially interested in hearing from those who identify with or have a background in Jewish culture and/or faith. We are looking to cast diversely and inclusively for this production.

Looking to cast an ensemble of 10 principal actors and 5 understudy actors.

Principal pay rate: $250/week for rehearsals & $35/performance
Understudy pay rate: $600 stipend & $35/performance (when u/s goes on)

Roles

ANNE FRANK (female presenting, all ethnicities. 13-15, to be played by late teen/early 20s) Energetic, imaginative, and earnest, Anne alternatively vexes and inspires those around her. Extraordinary in her hope, passion, and belief in the good in the world.

OTTO FRANK (male presenting, all ethnicities. 40+) Anne's father and confidant. Patient and even-tempered, Otto leads with love and strength.

EDITH FRANK (female presenting, all ethnicities. 40+) Longs for a deeper connection with her daughter Anne. Cultured, reserved, and seemingly nervous, she makes her mind known.

MARGOT FRANK (female presenting, all ethnicities. Older teenager, to be played by late teen/early 20s) Anne's older sister. Quiet, modest, and reserved.

MRS. VAN DAAN (female presenting, all ethnicities. 35+) Easily annoyed by Anne, her seemingly materialistic nature is balanced with a sense of humor and concern for her family.

MR. VAN DAAN (male presenting, all ethnicities. 35+) Alternatively jovial and churlish, Mr. Van Daan is frequently at odds with others, especially his quiet and introverted son. PETER: (male presenting, all ethnicities. 15, to be played by late teen/early 20s) Shy, quiet teenager. Exasperated by Anne at first, the two develop a friendship and share a first kiss.

MR. DUSSEL: (male presenting, all ethnicities. Older) Fussy dentist who joins the families. Tightly wound, but ultimately kind.

MIEP: (female presenting, all ethnicities. 25+) Well-liked, generous secretary who brings food, supplies, and news to those in hiding.

MR. KRALER: (male presenting, all ethnicities.) Otto Frank's business partner who helps hide the members of the annex. Dignified.

All persons hired for this project must be vaccinated against COVID-19. The company will be following the League of Chicago Theatre's guidelines for Covid-19 safety.