King Lear

DESCRIPTION

Update 8/21/26: Principals are cast but we still need ENSEMBLE members!

ROLES: Actors of all genders, particularly older actors 40 are encouraged to audition. All roles are speaking roles, as Shakespeare has graciously included a plethora of unnamed but important roles such as Knight, Solider, Messenger, Gentleman/Gentlewoman, Doctor/Healer.

Overview:

Casting the equity showcase production of "King Lear" from the Secret Theatre, a historically inspired, immersive, processional staging that explores how inherited systems of power corrupt, leaving behind a legacy of greed and resentment with devastating consequences for two families and an entire nation. Richard Mazda, the Artistic Director of The Secret Theatre, will play Lear as well as co-direct with Barbara McGlamery, drama therapist and director.

Alongside Shakespeare's principal characters and story is a visible ensemble that forms the backbone of the kingdom. This production makes visible the work that is so often unseen: the attendants, servants, messengers, witnesses, and caretakers whose labor sustains those in power. They also transform each playing space in full view of the audience, making the work of theatre itself part of the storytelling. We are seeking performers with strong physical presence who are comfortable with movement, scene transitions, and ensemble-based storytelling. Performers of all races, ethnicities, ages, body types, gender identities, and backgrounds are encouraged to audition. Every performer in this production has one or more speaking roles, and many portray multiple characters.

Rehearsals are Tues/Thur Evenings 6-9pm; Sunday 3-6pm. First readthrough is 9/1.

Tech Fri 10/23/26, Sunday - Thurs 10/25-10/29. Opens Friday 10/30/2026 with 8pm performance time, 7pm call. Performances 8pm on 10/31, 11/1; Thurs 11/5, 11/6, 11/7, 11/ 8; Thurs 11/12, 11/13, 11/14, 11/15; 11/19, 11/20, final show Saturday 11/21. (this is mostly Thursday- Sunday evening performances, except for the first week that starts on Friday 10/30 and the final week that ends on Sat 11/21). No matinees.

Submissions: Must have experience with performing Shakespeare or classical texts. Submit headshot, resume, and link to video submission of a Shakespeare monologue of your choice. Links to YouTube are preferred. Please do not submit video clips in email. In subject line of email please label "King Lear Ensemble"

DURATION

Sep 1, 2026 - Nov 21, 2026

SALARY

$200.00 – $200.00 per gig

• UNION
• NON-UNION

DURATION

Sep 1, 2026 - Nov 21, 2026

SALARY

$200.00 – $200.00 per gig