Audition Notice
The Play's The Thing (2027)
A Barking Gecko Arts Production
Written by Sam Longley & William Shakespeare
Directed by Sam Longley
Cast: 3 performers
Target audience: Years 7 - 10 (Ages 12+) and families
About the Show
Something is rotten in the state of Denmark… and the bins don’t get taken out till next week.
When three Elizabethan tradies are mistaken for professional actors, they suddenly find themselves caught up in a dangerous royal plot. Their challenge? Stage a performance that could expose a king, reveal the truth and, most importantly, save their own lives. Unfortunately, they have no idea what they are doing or how to make a theatre show. All the world's a stage and they must strut and fret their hour upon it… or get eaten by a bear.
Inspired by Shakespeare's Hamlet, The Play's The Thing is a fast-paced, theatrical comedy combining Shakespearean language, contemporary humour, swordplay, puppetry and audience interaction.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking three (3) dynamic, versatile performers to join the cast of The Play's The Thing.
We're particularly interested in performers with:
- Excellent Shakespearean performance skills, including a strong command of classical text, language and verse.
- Exceptional comedic instincts and comic timing.
- Strong physical theatre and movement skills, with confidence in physical comedy.
- Versatility in character work and the ability to embrace multiple performance styles.
- Strong ensemble skills, a collaborative approach and confidence engaging with young audiences.
Experience in stage combat or puppetry is highly regarded.
Audition Details
Audition Dates: Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 December 2026
Callbacks: Thursday 10 December 2026
Location: Rehearsal Room, Subiaco Arts Centre - 180 Hamersley Road, Subiaco
Audition Duration: 20 minutes
Shortlisted applicants will be notified on Tuesday 1 December 2026 and provided with in-person audition details and preparation materials.
Audition Preparation
Performers will be asked to:
- Perform a short Shakespearean monologue delivered from memory without notes.
- Participate in a directed scene reading, working opposite a reader and responding to direction.
We encourage performers to make bold, imaginative choices and demonstrate both their technical proficiency and playful approach to Shakespeare.
Performers invited to callbacks will also participate in physical, character-based and ensemble exercises. Further details and preparation materials will be provided in advance.
Production Dates
Rehearsals
Monday 21 June – Friday 16 July 2027
Four weeks, Perth metropolitan area.
Production Week
Monday 19 – Friday 23 July 2027
Performance Season & Tour
26 July – 14 August 2027
Performers must be available for the full rehearsal, production and performance period.
Please note: All dates are subject to final confirmation.
How to Apply
To be considered for an audition, please submit:
- Your current CV, including relevant theatre and performance experience.
- A recent headshot.
- A brief expression of interest outlining your experience with Shakespeare, physical theatre and/or comedy.
- Your availability for the audition dates and full production period.
Applications Close: Friday 20 November at 5:00 pm
Shortlisted performers will be contacted by Tuesday 1 December with their audition details and preparation materials.
Please note:
- Performers must live in Perth and be at least 18 years old.
- We do not accept self-tapes.
- Applications sent by email, or any other way outside the online form, WILL NOT be read or considered.
If you have any questions, accessibility requirements or trouble completing the form, please contact rebecca.nelson@barkinggecko.com.au.
We look forward to meeting you!