The Merchant of Venice
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Andrew Parks
- Audition Dates and Times: Wednesday and Thursday, January 12 & 13, at 7:30 PM
- Callbacks: Saturday, January 15, at 2 PM
- Performance Dates: April 8 - May 8, 2011 (No performances April 22, 23, or 24)
- Rehearsals begin the first week of February.
The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare's most enduring and memorable plays. Melancholy Antonio loves Bassanio, so when the youth asks for 3000 ducats, Antonio says yes before knowing it’s to win the hand of the lovely Portia. His capital tied up in merchant ships at sea, Antonio must go to Shylock, a moneylender he reviles. Shylock wraps his grudge in kindness, offering a three-month loan at no interest. But if not repaid, Antonio will owe a pound of his own flesh, nearest his heart!
Auditioners are asked to prepare a brief Shakespearean monologue of no more than 10 lines. Auditioners will also be asked to read from scripts provided at the audition.
Needed are 8 men and 3 women ages 18 and up. The role of Shylock has already been cast. All other roles are available.
Below is a brief description of each available role. Note that some actors will be playing multiple roles, as indicated below. It is possible that the arrangement of roles will alter slightly depending on the final cast. All ethnicities are encouraged to audition. For more information about the auditions or the production, please call 732.560.3689 or e-mail aparks@quixoticgames.com
Women:
- Portia, the heiress of Belmont (age 20 - 35)
- Nerissa, her friend and attendant (age 20 - 35)
- Jessica, daughter of Shylock (age 18 - 30)
Men:
- Antonio, the merchant of Venice (age 35 - 65)
- Bassanio, his friend, suitor to Portia (age 20 - 35)
- Gratiano, friend to Bassanio (age 20 - 35)
- Lorenzo, their friend, in love with Jessica (age 18 - 30)
- Salerio, friend of Antonio (age 20 - 60)
Multiple role performers:
- Solanio, friend of Antonio / Prince of Morocco (age 20 - 60)
- Launcelot Gobbo, clownish servant of Shylock / Prince of Arragon (age 20 - 40)
- Duke of Venice / Tubal, Shylock's friend / Balthasar, servant of Portia (age 40 - 65)
