Video Auditions for SWEAT by Lynn Nottage
Actors Ensemble of Berkeley is now accepting video auditions for an online workshop reading of SWEAT by Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, directed by Tracy Baxter.
- Video submission deadline: Sunday, June 20, 11:59 p.m.
- Small stipend
- Time commitment: Up to 15 hours directed rehearsing (max 5 rehearsals), 4-8 hours independent rehearsing, and two online readings
SWEAT is a blistering ensemble drama about lives and friendships devastated by the ongoing deindustrialization of working-class America. It’s searing and human. We ask that you familiarize yourself with the story to prepare your audition. The full script is available in print and e-book at multiple area libraries.
For rehearsals and performances you’ll need a computer, a stable internet connection (at least 3 MBS upload speed) , and a quiet performance space, preferably without windows. We’ll loan you a green screen if you need one. We ask that you provide your own costumes (contemporary tee shirts, baseball caps, bandannas), makeup, and props (beer and shot glasses, cigarettes, keys).
What to submit
- One contemporary monologue (90 seconds maximum)
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One selected monologue from SWEAT (See links next to character name for link to monologues)
The characters in this play don’t have money or options and the walls are closing in fast, so for the SWEAT monologues we’re looking for raw yet vulnerable portrayals. Filming yourself from a hand-held camera will be fine.
Note: We are restricted by licensing concerns to casting to type.
Characters
- EVAN, 40s, African-American, parole officer: Evan, aeb Audition Material, Monologues
- JASON, 21/29, White American of German descent, plant worker, loves motorcycles, dreams of owning a Dunkin’ Donuts one day, winds up in prison: Jason, aeb Audition Material Monologue
- CHRIS, 21/29, African-American, plant worker, wants to go to school, maybe to become a teacher, winds up in prison: Chris: aeb Audition Material
- STAN, 50s/early 60s, White American of German descent, retired from the plant, manages a bar, disabled and somewhat bitter: Stan, aeb Audition Material, Monologues
- OSCAR, 22/30, Colombian-American, works at Stan’s bar, is largely ignored by the regulars, especially Tracey: Oscar, aeb Audition Material Monologue
- TRACEY, late 40’s/ 50’s, White American of German descent, Jason’s mother, plant worker, friends with Cynthia, harbors resentments that will undoubtedly lead to Trumpian politics:Tracey, aeb Audition Material Monologues
- CYNTHIA, late 40’s/ 50’s, African-American--Chris’s mom, plant worker, married to an addict she’s getting away from, has just risen to a management position: Cynthia: aeb Audition Material, Monologues
- JESSIE, 40s, Italian-American, plant worker, barfly with only rare moments of lucidity: Jesse, aeb Audition Material Monologue
- BRUCIE, 40s, African-American, Cynthia’s ex who wants yet another chance, addict, locked out plant worker: Brucie: aeb Audition Material Monologues
To access the monologues, click the highlighted link. A new box will appear. Click on the name of the character in that box. Your computer should open a new tab with the monologue. You can also copy the link and paste it in your browser.
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Tracy Baxter is a writer based in Oakland. Her script “KUDZU 2012” was a semifinalist selection in the 2018 Bay Area Playwright Foundations New Play Festival and a finalist selection in the 2020 Screencraft Stage Play contest. She's performed with Actors Ensemble of Berkeley, The Ninjaz of Drama, and Theater of Others. This is her first directorial effort. |
A.E. Online Audition Submissions Checklist
1) Film both monologues
2) Upload your head shot, resume, and link to your video audition to this audition form: https://forms.gle/uAnVNMz2Q6qMVvsPA
3) If you have trouble submitting or are unable to film yourself, don’t worry. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. before June 20 (sooner the better) and we’ll set up a Zoom appointment or work to find other accommodations. If you don't have a resume, just put down whatever experience you feel might be applicable.
4) New to auditioning? We can suggest monologues, just ask.
FYIs
We encourage both theatre veterans (non-AEA) and newcomers to audition. If this is your first time, let us know and we’ll help you through the process.
Actors Ensemble is an all-volunteer company. However, we pay actors a small stipend for expenses and a portion of performance donations in accordance with AB5.
