Drunk Shakespeare Chicago

  • Equity
  • Anywhere

Website Drunk Shakespeare Chicago

Pay Rate: 3 types offered: Weekly - $850 minimum of 8 shows per week Core - $475 minimum of 5 shows per week Part Time - guaranteed 2 shows a month or more at $95 per show
Audition Date and Time: due May 15, 2025
Audition Location: virtual, please submit to jobs@brassjar.com
Contact Person Email: jobs@brassjar.com
Contact Person Name: Lexee Leach

SYNOPSIS: Every evening, a group of five skilled performers, members of ‘The Drunk Shakespeare Society,’ gather to put on a mesmerizing play. But here’s the thrilling twist: one among them bravely indulges in multiple shots of liquid courage, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance. Since 2014, Drunk Shakespeare has been entertaining audiences from all over the world with productions in NYC, Chicago, DC, Phoenix, and Houston. Drunk Shakespeare is a New York Times Critics’ Pick and the Chicago Tribune said it “may just wind up being one of the most enjoyable ways to experience a tragedy.” Alumni from the cast have gone on to perform on Broadway, in the West End, Blue Man Group, The Deuce, Billions, Sunnyside and on national tours.

An eclectic mix of performers, each bringing their unique flair and artistic prowess to our ensemble. No matter your background or identity, we invite you to audition for roles that interest and excite you. Joining our dynamic troupe means being part of a rotating cast, collaborating closely with the director to sculpt your character, putting forth your individuality, and spotlighting your strengths as a performer. It’s a celebration of you!

NOTE: With the exception of The Host, all roles will be required to drink alcohol on stage approximately once a week.

While nudity is not required, performers may choose to include elements of full or partial nudity in their onstage performances. Additionally, performers may witness or participate in scenes that involve various states of undress. Performers may be involved in or observe comedic representations of sexual poses, the use of sexual props, and scenes that include explicit language.

Material to Prepare:

SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Please submit your headshot, resume and video audition. Please prepare two contrasting Shakespeare monologues, 1 minute in length each. We would like to meet YOU through your monologue, so approach it in acontemporary way that allows your personality to shine while honoring Shakespeare's intention.

Deadline: 05/15/2025

SUBMIT TO

jobs@brassjar.com

Time Commitment:

up to 8 shows a week, rehearsals during the week

Character Type/Restrictions:

SEEKING:

HOST: Meet the Master of Ceremonies and impressions extraordinaire. They welcome the audience into the society and wrangle the drunk actor while keeping the show in motion. A magnetic performer with the ability to listen and connect to an audience and a love for hosting a party. Picture wielding a vast repertoire of impressions, effortlessly slipping into diverse dialects and characters, all while ensuring the show pulses with excitement and laughter. *Note: This track is NOT required to drink on stage.

MACBETH: Our leading man thru-which the audience experiences the arc of the narrative. Macbeth is a valiant soldier returning home from war who is enticed by compelling allure of ambition (and a very convincing wife). Commanding with excellent Shakespeare chops and the ability to drive the play. Macbeth often ends up shirtless at the end of the play. (Dependent on the comfort of the actor). *This role may be required to drink on stage approximately once a week.

LADY MACBETH: Lady M, a captivating force wielding every tool to sway her husband, seduce the audience, and propel their joint ascent (and inevitable descent) into power. You also get to play a pretty gnarly witch. A bold and enchanting character with a strong command of Shakespeare’s text, ready to mesmerize audiences with every compelling twist of the tale. *This role may be required to drink on stage approximately once a week.

BANQUO (AND OTHERS): Get ready for a rollercoaster of roles! This track is a whirlwind—shifting from the confidant best friend to the hilariously hungover, flirtatious porter; a puppet, a witch, and more. A broad character range and a love for the outrageous. Improvisation and puppetry skills are a major plus! *This role may be required to drink on stage approximately once a week.

MACDUFF: Macduff is the pivotal force behind the play's climactic crescendo. Physical dynamism and
electric energetic. A compelling mover and has an impressive musical talent. This track also gets to play a fun witch and indulge in a little puppetry. Whether you're a singer or a wizard with a guitar, this role promises an exhilarating fusion of movement, music, and mystique. *This role may be required to drink on stage approximately once a week.

To apply for this job email your details to jobs@brassjar.com