Audition Q&A

 

Julius Caesar? So, what’s that about – let me guess, Julius Caesar?

Yes and no. The play follows Brutus, a Roman senator and ally of Julius Caesar. Brutus has to balance his love for Caesar against his fear that Caesar has taken too much power. Julius Caesar is assassinated halfway through the show (yes, spoiler), as we follow Brutus facing the consequences of his actions as Mark Antony seeks revenge.

 

So, where and when are auditions?

Auditions will be at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church (201 E Frederick Dr., Sterling VA) at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 3 and Friday, Dec. 4. On Saturday, Dec. 5, there will be more auditions from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

 

The audition team has scheduled callbacks for Sunday, Dec. 6. at 2 p.m., but only if necessary and not for all roles.

 

How do I sign up?

Audition slots are available through Sign-Up Genius here.  Be sure to include your email address with your sign-up so that we can send you updates and additional details.

 

Walk-in auditions are also encouraged, but there may be more waiting involved.

 

If you have questions about auditions, please contact the production team at HailCaesar@sterlingplaymakers.org.

 

And when are the performances?

The show will be performed over two weekends in March with evening performances on March 12-13 and 19-20 and matinee performances on March. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. We have been approved to perform in the theatre at Sterling Middle School.

 

A (very early and tentative) rehearsal calendar is available here.

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What parts are available?

No parts are pre-cast and all parts are available for audition. As written, this show has a lot of named 1-2 scene parts and we’re expecting several members of the cast to juggle 2-3 smaller roles. A list of the characters with a short description can be found here. 

 

Can anyone try out?

Definitely. No parts are precast, and the Sterling Playmakers has a history of mixing experienced

performers with novices looking for training and experience. Even if you don’t know that there’s a good role for you, our advice is always to try out. We try to keep auditions fun and fast-paced and every audition hones your skills and makes you better prepared for your next audition. 

 

And a quick note. Anyone can audition, but if you are cast then you will need to join the Sterling Playmakers. Membership fees are $25 per. You can join here.

 

Do I have to have anything prepared before auditions?

Nope. If you have a headshot and a theatrical resume, we’ll certainly take a look, but they’re not required. Likewise, if you have a monologue prepared that you’d like us to hear—we’ll listen, but it’s not required.

 

Auditions will only consist of non-memorized (cold) readings. Each auditionee will have the opportunity to read at least two scenes. If time permits, we’d like to hear additional readings. A few of the scenes will be shared with auditioners before the audition. Some of the readers are here (scenes) and here (monologues). 

 

The audition form is here. If you feel like sending it beforehand (email to HailCaesar@sterlingplaymakers.org), we can think early about assigning scenes to read. Those auditioning in-person can bring the audition form that day.

 

What if I can’t make any of the audition dates because of my schedule?

While not preferred, please contact director John Geddie at HailCaesar@sterlingplaymakers.org for an audition alternative. Requests for an audition alternative should be received by no later than November 25.

 

So, who’s involved?

The full staff list is filling up now, but here’s the current leadership team.

 

Curtis Lewis, Producer

John Geddie, Director

Misty Gottlieb, Assistant Director & Technical Director

Helen Gernhardt, Stage Manager

Kim Fry & Marie Casey, Lighting Designers

Josh McCreery, Sound Designer

Jane White, Costume Designer & Fight Choreographer

Stephi Shraga, Props Manager

 

Any last-minute advice on auditions?

A lot of people hear Shakespeare and automatically go marble statue mode, where it’s more reciting the language rather than acting it. This is a play of big emotions and passions. Look for ways to express that. And don’t be scared of going big.