Reader’s Theater requires actors to read directly from the script. The audience pictures the action from hearing the script being read aloud. There are no sets, costumes, props, or memorized lines. The acting abilities of the performers are tested as directors guide them towards finding the passion in the words, creating a compelling and memorable performance. Without the visual dynamics of a standard theatrical production, the audience hangs on to every word from the actor’s mouth. It is a truly remarkable experience.
Unlike ordinary productions, Reader’s Theater allows performers to have a much shorter rehearsal schedule. For those who would like to be involved in another production, this provides an opportunity to gain meaningful experience without the full commitment of a standard theatrical production.
During this ICONIC season, we will have four Reader’s Theater events:
Dominique Morisseau’s Skeleton Crew - October 21, 2019
August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean - January 13, 2020
Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version) - April 20, 2020
Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun - July 20, 2020
If you would like to be a part of any of these productions, we will have auditions on December 18 & 19, 2019 at 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. While these auditions are for Gem of the Ocean, the audition may be attended by the other two directors. No experience is required. Those who audition will be asked to do a cold read from a selected script. Performers of all ages are welcome. Call 757-247-8950 to schedule your audition (after November 1).
Gem of the Ocean
Written by August Wilson · Performance: January 13, 2020
Set in 1904, August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean begins on the eve of Auth Esther’s 287th birthday. When Citizen Barlow comes to her Pittsburgh’s Hill District home seeking asylum, she sets him off on a spiritual journey to find a city in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Gem of the Ocean is the ninth work of Wilson’s ten-play cycle that has recorded the American Black experience and helped to define generations.
Drama, 5m, 2f. Duration: 120 minutes.
Eli
Aunt Esther’s gatekeeper and longtime friend of Solly.
Black Mary
Aunt Esther’s protege and housekeeper. Late twenties.
Citizen Barlow
A young man from Alabama who is in spiritual turmoil. Late twenties/early thirties.
Aunt Esther Tyler
A very old, yet vital spiritual advisor for the community.
Solly Two Kings
Suitor to Aunt Esther, former Underground Railroad conductor. Sixty-seven.
Rutherford Selig
A traveling peddler who is a frequent visitor of the house.
Caesar Wilks
Black Mary’s brother and local constable. About fifty-two.
“August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean” is presented in special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. For more information on this production, please click here.