Auditions Open for “The One Act Play That Goes Wrong” in Geneva

Residents of Geneva, Illinois, aged 18 and older are invited to audition for the upcoming production of the comedy play “The One Act Play That Goes Wrong.” The auditions, organized by the Geneva Park District’s Playhouse 38, will take place on August 28, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the playhouse located at 321 Stevens Street, Suite P, Geneva. Participation is free, and both registered and walk-in candidates will be accepted.

“The One Act Play That Goes Wrong” was originally crafted by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields, and Jonathan Sayer. It humorously depicts the efforts of the Cornley University Drama Society as they attempt to stage their latest production, “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” As the plot unfolds, chaos ensues, featuring an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that cannot play dead, and actors who stumble through their performances. The story highlights the society’s struggle to deliver the show despite all odds.

Directors Emphasize Technical Challenge and Humor

The production will be directed by Carolyn Goldsmith and Alex Simko, who are eager to bring the comedic aspects of the play to life. Simko expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “I’m really excited to be working on a show that has such complex staging. As someone who loves all things backstage related, I’m thrilled to take on this technical challenge to create something really engaging for audience members.” Goldsmith echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the play’s tribute to the unpredictable nature of live theatre: “We can’t wait to bring you this uproarious homage to the true and utter hilarity of live theatre.”

Auditions will consist of a reading from the script and a one- to two-minute monologue. To enhance the audition experience, registration is encouraged. Interested participants can register by visiting GenevaParks.org and using activation code 5211703-01.

Rehearsals and Performance Schedule

Rehearsals for the production are scheduled for Mondays and Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. Performances of “The One Act Play That Goes Wrong” are set for October 24, October 25, and November 1, 2023, at 7 p.m. Additionally, matinee performances will occur at 3 p.m. on October 26 and November 2.

Tickets for the performances will be priced at $15 in advance, with a cost of $20 on the day of the performances. Tickets will go on sale starting September 2, 2023, and can be purchased at the Sunset Community Center, located at 710 Western Ave., Geneva, through GenevaParks.org/Playhouse, or at the Stephen Persinger Recreation Center, located at 3507 Kaneville Road, Geneva.

Playhouse 38, a cultural arts facility operated by the Geneva Park District, is dedicated to providing community entertainment and cultural arts programming. For further information, interested individuals can call 630-232-4542 or visit GenevaParks.org.