Open Public Auditions for Theatre Northwest’s ‘The Miser’ Set for Jan. 28-29

IU Northwest director seeks actors of all skill levels

rot6Theatre Northwest, the performance company of the Indiana University Northwest Department of Performing Arts, has announced open auditions on Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 28 and 29 for the spring production of “The Miser,” a comedy adapted by Timothy Mooney from the play, “Moliere.”

Auditions are open to everyone. IU Northwest students regardless of their academic major are invited to audition as well as actors and actresses of every skill level from the general community. No previous theatre experience is required.

Open auditions are from 7 to 9 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 28. First callbacks and auditions for those unable to attend on Tuesday are set for 6 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 29. The auditions will take place at Theatre Northwest on Grant, located at 3660 Grant Street in Gary, just three blocks west of the IU Northwest campus next to Arts on Grant.

Those auditioning are advised to come dressed comfortably.

In “The Miser,” Harpagon loves nothing so much as his money, not even his own children. So even though both his son and daughter have fallen in love with young, vital partners, Harpagon attempts to engage them to a rich widow and widower in their declining years. Making matters worse, Harpagon wants to marry his son’s lover himself, his only regret being she has very little money as a dowry. This rhymed-verse adaptation of Moliere’s classic comedy explores the fine line between money and love and the consequences of valuing the former over the latter.

The 14 roles, which can be played by any actor, regardless of age or race, include:

Harpagon, the miser himself. This role will be played by graduating senior Theatre Major, Mario Dongu.

Elise, daughter of Harpagon, in love with Valere. A very intelligent and passionate girl, quick to change her mind, and prone to alternating fits of pure delight and utter depression.

Cleante, son of Harpagon, in love with Marianne. A strong and bold young man and the only one willing to stand up to his father directly.

Valere, in love with Elise. An upstanding but poor young man who will do anything to convince Harpagon that he is suitable for Elise. He is posing as Harpagon’s steward.

Marianne, in love with Cleante. A lovely young girl who cares for her sick mother. Known for her tenderness and compassion, but very poor.

Anselme, a wealthy older man, contracted to Elise by Harpagon. Ultimately it is discovered that he is the father of Valere and Mariane.

La Fleche, servant to Cleante. A very clever man suspected (like all the servants) of stealing from Harpagon. Ultimately, he gets his revenge for the abuse he suffered.

Frosine, a woman of intrigue. She plays matchmaker for Harpagon and Marianne, but despite much flattering, fails to get a tip for her service.

Master Simon, a money broker. Arranges a loan (at outrageous interest) from Harpagon to Cleante without either of them knowing the other is involved.

Master Jacques, cook and coachman to Harpagon. Must change hats as he jumps between his two jobs. He is beaten for being honest with Harpagon about his reputation.

Dame Claude, Brindavoine, and La Merluche, Harpagon’s servants and lackeys.

A Police Commissioner, assigned to investigate the case of Harpagon’s stolen hoard.

In addition to actors and actresses, Theatre Northwest is also seeking those with interest and/or experience with stage management, costumes, properties, lighting, set construction and painting. Those interested in these positions should contact Tim O’Donnell, Technical Director, at tiodonne@iun.edu.

Rehearsals are scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday from February 3 to March 26, 2014. Additional weekend rehearsal times will be added as opening night approaches. Those auditioning must be available for a majority of the rehearsals and must declare rehearsal conflicts before being cast.

The performance of “The Miser” is scheduled for 7:30 p.m., March 27-29, and April 2-5 and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 30.

Students can receive academic credit for their involvement with this show by registering for one credit of T168 Theatre Practicum. For information, contact Associate Professor of Theatre Kathy Arfken at karfken@iun.edu. For information about open auditions, contact Assistant Professor of Theatre Mark Baer at mcbaer@iun.edu.