GreenMan Theatre to host auditions for ‘The Cover of Life’
Interested in a role in an upcoming production of GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s “The Cover of Life” by playwright R.T. Robinson?
If so, head to GreenMan’s performance space at First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, 232 S. York St., for auditions from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 23, and Wednesday, Sept. 25.
Based on true events in the life of Robinson’s mother, “The Cover of Life” features Tood, Weetsie and Sybill, three brides in rural Louisiana, each married to a Cliffert brother and living under their mother-in-law's roof as their men are off fighting in World War II.
A local news article about these young wives attracts the attention of American magazine magnate Henry Luce. He decides the trio belong on the cover of Life Magazine and assigns Kate Miller, a war correspondent, to the story.
Though she views doing a “women's piece” as a career setback, Miller accepts her first cover story and embarks on a greater journey than she anticipates.
With charm, heartache and hope, “The Cover of Life” is a deeply affecting story about the characters’ struggles for self-worth.
“This is a very character-driven story,” said Jayne Furlong, the play’s director. “Each character is dynamic and multifaceted, so there’s a lot for actors to sink their teeth into and work with when it comes to these roles.”
When it comes to casting “The Cover of Life,” Furlong said she is “looking for actors excited to have deep, probing conversations around characters, the situations within the play and the overall story that the cast will be telling together.”
“The Cover of Life” cast will feature seven roles. For a complete list of roles and character descriptions, log on to www.greenmantheatre.org/coveroflife or www.facebook.com/Greenmantheatre.
Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Callbacks will be held as needed. Auditionees are asked to specify on their audition form if there is a callback conflict.
Sign up for an audition time via www.greenmantheatre.org/the-cover-of-life.html. Walk-ups are also welcome. Resumes are encouraged but not required. Audition sides will be available for review beginning Sept. 15 by contacting coveroflifegmt@gmail.com.
Furlong encourages performers of all races and ethnicities, gender identities, sexualities, abilities and ages to audition. Note, the script contains sensitive subjects and themes including infertility, domestic violence, suicide and gun violence. Actors should consider their comfort level with discussing and portraying these issues before moving forward with auditioning.
Actors must be prepared to list all conflicts from October to November. GreenMan Theatre’s “The Cover of Life” has a short rehearsal period and is an ensemble piece, so most actors will be called at most rehearsals. Rehearsals will be on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
This is a community theater production. All positions are unpaid, and all participants are expected to assist with at least one work call (set build, poster distribution, prop organization, costume assistance, etc.) Contact the director with any additional questions at coveroflifegmt@gmail.com.
In its 21st season, GreenMan Theatre Troupe is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide a source of cultural enrichment and pride for the community by presenting diverse, quality productions and providing opportunities for personal growth in the theatrical arts. GreenMan has been presenting plays in Elmhurst since being founded in 2003.
Past productions include “The Odd Couple,” “Dracula,” and “Pride and Prejudice.” GreenMan also offers classes and workshops for members and the community and welcomes new members and participants in all aspects of theater production. GreenMan programs are partially supported by Explore Elmhurst, as well as other individual and corporate donations.