Audition Notice

Absent Friends, by Alan Ayckbourn

Sunday 15th August, 4pm

For more information, audition pieces and to book an audition slot, please contact Ann on bettyandharry30@gmail.com.

Director: Ann Atkins

Production Dates

Tuesday 26th - Saturday 30th October 2021               

Rehearsals

30th August – 10th September and 26th September – 25th October (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sunday)

For more information, please contact the Director, Ann Atkins, on bettyandharry30@gmail.com.

About the Play

Diana and Paul are hosting a get together of old friends. One of the friends, Colin, has just lost his fiancée in a drowning accident. They are hoping to comfort him whilst catching up on old times.

Evelyn and John are now new parents and Marge has come alone, as her husband, Gordon, is at home, ill in bed, but constantly phoning for advice! Marge is also happy to give unwanted advice to Evelyn for her baby's welfare and revelling in showing off her newly purchased shopping.

Diana is bordering on becoming neurotic having convinced herself her husband Paul, is having an affair with Evelyn. John and Evelyn constantly bicker with each other as everyone prepares for the arrival and comfort of the bereaved Colin!

Characters

Diana - 30-40. Good hostess, married to Paul and bordering on hysteria as she suspects Paul is having an affair with the younger Evelyn.

Paul - 30-40. Married to Diana. Quite sporty. They have two children at boarding school.

Marg - 30-40. Married to Gordon (who we never see) he is home in bed, ill! Always ready to give advice!! No family, but ready to advise Evelyn regarding her baby. An avid shopper and constantly on the phone to Gordon.

Evelyn - 20-35. Married to John. They have a new baby. Evelyn spends most of the time sitting by the pram and reading. We gather she was not one of the original group and is somewhat bored.

John - 30-40. Married to Evelyn. Always "on the go" doesn't find it easy to sit or stand still.

Colin - 30-40. Not quite what the group are expecting from a bereaved fiancé. He is eager to explain about his dead partner and comes armed with photo album.

Please note that ages given are playing ages.

Also seeking:

Stage Manager, Rehearsal Prompt, Costume designer

BLT actively encourages auditionees from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities and any of the above parts could be played by any race.