Hey guys,
I (Johnny) am running the show this Tuesday and we’re going to be staging a mock audition based on Caryl Churchill’s play Cloud Nine. The play is set in colonial Africa and explores the dual themes of gender issues within the family and imperialism during the Victorian Era. Everyone will be given a chance to audition and receive feedback on their performance.
The roles are posted below, I hope that everyone gets to go for two parts but this dependent on time. If you could please pm or post below stating your 1st and 2nd preference for roles that would be great as I get to co-ordinate better and you get to look at the script you will be using:
CLIVE: The model British aristocrat, at least at first glance. He puts his duty to country above all else and expects those that depend on him to behave according to his will. Played by a man.
BETHY: His wife, a beautiful homemaker. She relies totally upon her husband Clive to provide direction in her life. Betty remains caught between her duty to family and her yearning for romance. Played by a man.
EDWARD: Their effeminate young son. As the play progresses he discovers a proclivity for feminine things and an attraction to other males. However, he keeps his yearnings in check for fear of upsetting his conservative father. Played by a woman.
JOSHUA: Their black servant. Honest, reliable and dutiful, Joshua appears to be the perfect servant. He betrays his people to be with Clive. Underneath Joshua’s loyalty, however, anger ferments. Played by a white man.
MAUD: Bethy’s elderly mother. Maud adheres to the notion that women are meant to serve and honor their husbands by taking care of the home. She is a well intentioned mother and grandmother, but her values seem outdated as her guidance often falls upon deaf ears. Played by a woman
ELLEN: Edward’s governess. She possesses a strong sense of duty to Clive’s family. She is also dependent upon them and afraid of being sent away. Played by a woman
HARRY: A swashbuckling explorer. He represents British courage and discovery. However, Harry’s acclaim as an explorer masks a deviant sexual appetite. Played by a man
MRS SAUNDERS: A wealthy widow. She exhibits a unique sovereignty in a world where women are expected to be dutiful mothers and wives. She is unafraid to wield her sexuality, and she demands respect from the men with whom she comes into contact. Played by a woman
Please also note that this is a great opportunity for our more established members to push themselves in very unique roles. In particular, the parts of Bethy, Edward and Joshua are very challenging and we would encourage experienced members to put themselves forward for these roles. No one will be allowed apply for both the roles of Bethy and Clive.
