Exiled on a distant island, Prospero lives with his daughter, Miranda, attended by Ariel, and the monster Caliban. After twelve years spent perfecting his magical arts, he raises a storm at sea, bringing within his grasp the enemies who robbed him of his dukedom. But what vengeance does he propose to take?
This culminating masterpiece of Shakespeare’s career is a wonder of invention: a tempest, a shipwreck, castaways, lost children, music, first love, revenge, drunken clowns, murder plots, magic, monsters and spirits. It pits the desire for revenge against the demands of love and asks if man is capable of creating a brave new world. As timely now as it was 400 years ago!
Auditioners are requested to prepare a Shakespearean monologue and bring a copy of their theatrical resume and a headshot or snapshot to the audition. Cold readings will be provided for those who do not have a monologue prepared. Please wear comfortable clothes as there will be a movement section to the audition.
For further information please email: director@theshakespeareinitiative.org
Prospero/Prospera: 30+; m/f; the right Duke of Milan; in exile on the island with his/her daughter
Miranda: f; 18+; daughter to Prospero; has been living on the island since age 3
Ariel: m/f; any age; airy spirit; must be able to move/sing well; indentured servant to Prospero
Alonso/Alonsa: 30s+; m/f; King/Queen of Naples
Sebastian: 20s+; m; brother to Alonso/Alonsa
Antonio/Antonia: 20+; m/f; brother/sister to Prospero; usurped the throne from Prospero
Ferdinand: 18+; m; son to King/Queen of Naples; love interest of Miranda
Gonzalo/Gonzalia: 40s+; m/w; an honest old councilor; good friend to Prospero
Caliban: m; 20+; half sea-creature; native to the island; servant to Prospero
Trinculo/Mariner 2:m; 20s+; drunken jester
Note: casting on ages and genders is flexible; some doubling; The roles of Ceres, Iris and Juno will require some dancing.