Auditions:
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare
(abridged)[revised][again]
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [Revised] [Again] is a fast-paced, chaotic, and wildly funny celebration of Shakespeare’s works. This production embraces ensemble storytelling, physical comedy, audience interaction, and rapid character changes using fun props and costume pieces.
This production will feature a flexible and expanded cast (from the original scripted 3). We welcome performers ages 18 and up of all gender identities to audition. Casting will prioritize comedic instinct, creativity, collaboration, and willingness to play.
For us, a willingness to experiment and have fun in the room is more important than having a “perfect” audition.
Audition Information
- Auditions: Friday, August 28 from 6:30p-8:30p and Saturday, August 29 from 2:00p-5:00
- Callbacks: Sunday, August 30 from 1:00p-3:00p (if needed).
- Audition & Callback location: Birmingham Village Players, 34660 Woodward Ave., Birmingham
- Audition Form: Click the link below to complete the Audition Pre-Registration Form.
Video Auditions are allowed, but in-person auditions are encouraged. To submit your video audition, complete the Audition Pre-Registration Form below and upload a link to your video(s).
Click here for the Audition Pre-Registration Form
Performance Dates & Time
- Performance Dates: November 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 2026
- Performance Times: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays @ 7:30p; Sundays @ 2:00p
Rehearsal Schedule
Rehearsals will begin Wednesday, September 2. Rehearsals may be held Sundays (2p-5p), Mondays (7p-10p), and Wednesdays (7p-10p) but are subject to change based on cast/crew availability.
Meet the Production Team
- Director: Sarah Noah
- Producer: Joseph Vercellone
- Assistant Producer: Bryan Conroy
Character Descriptions
We plan to cast 5-7 performers for this production.
Rather than the script’s original three performers, this production expands the cast into a collaborative ensemble. Every actor will portray multiple Shakespearean characters throughout the evening through rapid costume changes, physical comedy, and imaginative storytelling.
All roles can be played by performers of any gender identity. The recurring host characters (Daniel, Jess, and Adam) will be renamed to match the performers cast in those roles.
Daniel – The host of the evening. Enthusiastic, confident, and focused on keeping the show moving as the chaos unfolds. Also plays multiple Shakespearean characters and helps create the world of each scene.
Jess – Self-proclaimed Shakespeare expert. Passionate, theatrical, a bit over the top, and convinced they know the “right” way to perform Shakespeare. Also plays multiple Shakespearean characters and helps create the world of each scene.
Adam – The wildcard. Easygoing, playful, and always ready to chase the next ridiculous idea. Also plays multiple Shakespearean characters and helps create the world of each scene.
Ensemble – Portray numerous Shakespearean characters throughout the evening through rapid character changes, physical comedy, and imaginative storytelling. Help create the world of each scene through collaboration, physical comedy, and bold theatrical choices.
We are committed to inclusive casting. Actors of all races, ethnicities, genders, abilities, and backgrounds are encouraged to audition.
Audition Cuts
Please prepare two of the provided monologues (one Shakespeare Monologue and one Traditional Monologue). During the audition, you will perform your monologues as you prepared them.
Memorization is not required. We are more interested in intentional choices, commitment, personality, and willingness to play.
After your initial readings, the director may ask you to perform the monologue again in 1–2 different styles or circumstances. These may include, but are not limited to, styles like: over-the-top excitement, serious melodrama, game show host, etc.
Click on the links below to access, download, and print the desired audition cut(s).
- Shakespeare Monologue Cuts (Choose one)
- Traditional Monologue Cuts (Choose one)
At auditions you will also be asked to do a group activity using props and simple prompts. A big part of this production involves using props in goofy and creative ways, so we’re excited to see how actors play, collaborate, and bring unexpected ideas to life.