Jackson County Community Theatre will conduct auditions for the first mainstage show of its 2017-18 season, “Baskerville,” at 7 p.m. July 16 to 17 at the Royal Off-the-Square Theatre, 121 W. Walnut St., Brownstown.
“Baskerville” is Ken Ludwig’s adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes mystery “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” Ludwig transforms Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic murder mystery into a murderously funny adventure. The show will be directed by John Hardaway.
The two principle characters to be cast are Sherlock Holmes, male, age 30 to 50, highly intelligent, confident, quick-witted and obsessive, who lives to solve mysteries and discover the truth; Doctor Watson, male, age 30 to 50, smart, grounded and full of heart. In addition, three actors (one woman and two men) play many characters, and must show versatility both physically and vocally, because they play a wide range of parts during the show. The female can be aged 20 to 35. The first male actor should be 30 to 60, and the second male actor should be 20 to 35 and be able to speak with a Texas and a cockney British accent for two of the parts. Ages are approximate.
In addition to the acting roles, the production team will need a producer, light and sound technicians, a property master, a stage manager and a costumer. Also, a number of dressers will be needed backstage to help with the challenging rapid character changes required.
All people coming to auditions should be prepared with a list of dates that might conflict with rehearsals, and also with a photo (a snapshot is acceptable) for matching faces with names after auditions. No other preparation is necessary. Cold readings from the script will be assigned.
Show dates for “Baskerville” are Oct. 13 to 15 and 20 and 21. Anyone trying out should make sure of availability on those dates.
Information: 812-358-5228.