Auditions for “A Lesson Before Dying” at Elmwood

The Elmwood Playhouse in Nyack will be holding auditions for its upcoming production of “A Lesson Before Dying,” written by Romulus Linney and directed by Kathy Gnazzo. “A Lesson Before Dying” is described as “a gripping piece that explores the polarities of racism and compassion.”

AUDITIONS: Tuesday, January 3 at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, January 4 at 7 p.m.

CALLBACKS: Thursday, January 5 at 7 p.m. (by invitation only)

PERFORMANCES: Friday, March 17 thru Saturday, April 8 (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with possible Wednesday and Thursdays)

SHOW DESCRIPTION:
In 1948 Louisiana Jefferson sits on death row. His lawyer defends him by saying that executing him is no better than executing a hog. Schoolteacher Grant Wiggins must convince him to die like a man.

CAST REQUIREMENTS: (5 males, 2 females)
Grant Wiggins –30s – 40s, African American, a schoolteacher in rural Louisiana, bitter and at odds with himself who finds his soul through his challenges with Jefferson.

Jefferson – 20s, an innocent man, African American, anger at the injustice of his conviction makes him decide that he will be dragged to his death like the hog his lawyer says he is, his humanity and dignity are reaffirmed by his experience with Grant Wiggins.

Miss Emma Glenn – 60s -70s, African American, strong, proud, dignified, and loving, she has her mind set that Jefferson will be a man with integrity even as he goes to his death. She will call in every favor to make this happen.

Reverend Moses Ambrose – 50s- 60s, African American, a devoted minister to his flock who sees all the answers in God, he is determined to save Jefferson’s soul.

Vivian Baptiste – 30s – 40s, a schoolteacher in town, devoted to her students, intelligent, compassionate, caring and very much in love with Grant Wiggins, she helps Grant find his moral compass.

Paul Bonin – 20s – late 30s, white Deputy Sheriff, polite, sympathetic, there are many lessons for him in what he witnesses between Grant and Jefferson.

Sam Guidry – 40’s-50’s, white, no nonsense Sheriff of Bayonne, who gives in to Miss Emma’s requests to have Grant speak with Jefferson

For more information or directions, call 845-353-1313 or visit http://www.elmwoodplayhouse.com.