Auditions at
Wellington Repertory Theatre
Auditions for The Importance of Being Earnest
by Oscar Wilde
directed by Julia Harris
will be held at the Newtown Community Centre on Saturday 2 August and Sunday 3 August 2:00pm - 5:00pm The Importance of Being
Earnest is a classic piece
of theatre – both in the writing and the playing. It’s clever and very funny
and a great education for an actor (and a director) in how to “do” comedy –
from word play to farce. It’s about a lot more than a handbag – or looking good
in period frocks. In Wellington Repertory Theatre’s production, which is
our end-of-year show directed by Julia Harris, there will be no period frocks –
or parasols – or lorgnettes as Julia intends pushing the standard conception of
the play just a little – without turning Oscar over in his grave. This will be a modern dress, no box sets, no
caricatures, no artificial delivery production – just wit and style and pace
and a lot of fun but still with the need for credible English accents. If you want to
know more about auditions, audition pieces and scripts contact Julia on 04 902
4423 or email julia@tracs.co.nz Cast
Jack Worthing; Mid-20s to mid-30s. Says he’s 28& needs to look older than Algy.
Takes his responsibilities seriously – but likes to have fun too and has a wicked sense of humour.
Stylish, romantic, smart.
Algernon Moncrieff; Mid 20s to early 30s. Must look younger than Jack. Charming, clever,
lives by his wits – and loves it. Dresses superbly, knows his wines, never pays his bills.
He is definitely a ladies' man.
Gwendolen Fairfax; Mid to late 20s, Sloan Ranger look but sharp as a razor.
Best schools, finished in Switzerland, top designers, always at the right parties & clubs, featured
regularly in Harpers and The Tatler. Likes to win. She is, after all, her
mother’s daughter.
Cecily Cardew; Just out of private girl’s school and not made it to London yet.
Says she’s “only just 18” but is Gwendolen’s verbal match. Romantic but shrewd,
used to getting her own way and knows how to manipulate people. Will manage Algy.
Lady Bracknell; Mid-40s to early 60s. Gwendolen’s mother and Algy's (and Jack’s)
aunt. Born poor, married into the aristocracy and knows exactly how “society” works
and can be used. Likes control – but knows when to make a tactical withdrawal.
Loves to win – and usually does. Ruthless enemy.
Miss Prism; mid-40s on but probably 50 – 60. Was a nursemaid to the Moncrieff’s and is
Cecily’s “governess”. Educated but is not a manager. Was wildly romantic when young,
still believes in “Mr Right” – but has developed a very sharp tongue – subtly delivered.
Learned to fend for herself but easily cowed by bullies.
Canon Chasuble; Over 50. Orthodox Anglican in his outlook and has a heart of gold.
Perfectly happy in his affluent rural parish – no ambitions to be Bishop.Used to being looked after.
Very secure personality.
Lane; Mid 30s up – possibly a bit older; Algy’s valet/servant. Sharp-witted and knows
how to “play the game”. Good working relationship with Algy. Single and likes it.
Merriman; Jack’s butler. Small part but key to the tea-party scene.
Possibly double with Lane – to make it worthwhile. Could also be ASM.