Website Open Space Arts
OPEN SPACE ARTS fights homophobia through artistic expression.
Open Space Arts is seeking actors for an on-book staged reading of LIVING THE DREAM, a new play by Daniel Walsh.
Directed by Rory Brady
Open Space Arts is seeking actors for an on-book staged reading of LIVING THE DREAM, a new play about a veteran public defender who must confront his own prejudices when a transgender former client returns seeking his help and his estranged transgender sister reenters his life.
The play reflects Open Space Arts’ mission by using theater to challenge transphobia, encourage understanding, and explore the possibilities of compassion, reconciliation, and change.
Material to Prepare:
Auditions: Video submissions only
Submission Deadline: Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Location: Open Space Arts, 1411 W. Wilson Avenue, Chicago
Compensation: $25 stipend
This will be an on-book staged reading. Attendance at both rehearsals is mandatory for all cast members.
SUBMISSION INFORMATION
Please submit the following to OSAAuditions@gmail.comby Wednesday, August 5, 2026:
· Headshot and résumé
· The role or roles for which you would like to be considered
· A one-minute video of a contemporary monologue
· A brief note explaining why this project appeals to you
· Confirmation that you are available for both rehearsals on August 20 and 21 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m
· Confirmation that you are available for the staged reading on August 22 at 7:30 p.m.
· Your pronouns
Please use the subject line:
LIVING THE DREAM — [ROLE] — [ACTOR’S NAME]
Time Commitment:
Rehearsals: Thursday, August 20, and Friday, August 21, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.
Staged Reading: Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.Two rehearsals and one performance on book
Character Type/Restrictions:
MIKE MULLIGAN — Male, 50s–60s
A veteran public defender whose skill at finding compassion for his clients is tested by his prejudice toward transgender people, including his own sister.
GREY — Nonbinary, 20s
An idealistic law student and public defender intern who challenges Mike to recognize Share’s humanity and confront his own bias.
SHARE BARTKOWSKI — Transgender woman, 50s–60s
A vulnerable but determined client who is beginning to live openly as a transgender woman while facing addiction, family conflict, and possible imprisonment.
MICHELLE PANTLE — Female, 50s–60s
A smart, direct state’s attorney and lifelong friend of Mike and Laura who pushes them toward reconciliation.
LAURA MULLIGAN — Transgender woman, 50s
Mike’s accomplished and emotionally grounded sister, who has built a full life without his approval but still hopes their relationship can heal.
JOHN BARTKOWSKI — Male, 50s–60s
Share’s physically ill and dependent brother, whose fear, misinformation, and cruelty complicate their deeply intertwined relationship.
To apply for this job email your details to osaauditions@gmail.com