Professional Theatre in Central PA.
MILLBROOK PLAYHOUSE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON VIRTUAL AUDITION
NON-UNION STOCK CONTRACT – NO EQUITY CONTRACTS AVAILABLE
Millbrook Playhouse, Mill Hall, PA
Producing Artistic Director David Leidholdt
Millbrook Playhouse seeks actors for the 2024 holiday production. Millbrook will continue to hold virtual submission and virtual callback processes.
The Millbrook Playhouse encourages everyone with every experience to submit to our season. Note that the age ranges and genders listed reflect those of the character, not the actor we will cast. Please submit for all characters for which you feel you would be appropriate. A Link to our diversity, equity, and inclusion pledge can be found in the “About Us” tab.
“A CHRISTMAS STORY, THE PLAY” By Philip Grecian
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT: OCTOBER 27TH, 2024
10 performances from December 5, 2024 – December 15, 2024.
Rehearsals start on or about November 22 to December 4.
Before submitting, please review the breakdown (listed below), and contract basics,.
If you have any questions before then, please contact millbrookcasting@gmail.com. We will respond to your queries as quickly as possible.
Please note that all employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before arriving in P.A. This policy is subject to change based on updates from the CDC and the State Department of Health.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, striving to create a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or veteran status.
HOW TO SUBMIT
OTHER INFO
ABOUT THE CONTRACT:
Out-of-Town Actors:
Local Actors (ages 19+ living within 35 miles):
Millbrook Playhouse is a traditional stock theatre company in Mill Hall, Clinton County, Pennsylvania. We have been producing shows for over sixty years. For our 2024 holiday show, we will present the stage play “A Christmas Story” on our RYAN MAINSTAGE, a 235-seat thrust theater,
The Millbrook Playhouse encourages everyone with every experience to submit to our summer season. Note that the age ranges and genders listed reflect those of the character, not the actor we will cast. Please submit for all characters for which you feel you would be appropriate. Our diversity, equity, and inclusion pledge can be found at the bottom of this notice.
“What is summer stock?”
Summer stock theatre is any theatre that presents stage productions only in the summer. The name combines the season with the tradition of staging shows by a resident company, reusing stock scenery and costumes. Often viewed as a starting point for professional actors.
“Where is Millbrook located?”
In Mill Hall, PA, conveniently located off Route 80 in Central PA, It is 3.5 hours from New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore; 2 hours to Pittsburgh and 4 hours to Washington, D.C. We are 45 minutes to State College (home of Penn State) and 25 minutes from Williamsport (the closest Starbucks).
“Is Millbrook really housed in a barn?”
Yes, it’s a barn! Constructed over 125 years ago as a dairy farm. Converted into a single-stage theatre in 1963, and in the 80s, a cabaret theatre opened in the once-old milking station. The two theatres are the Ryan Main Stage, a 235-seat three-quarter thrust, and the Poorman Cabaret, a 100-seat black box. We also have a small stage in the Courtyard, aka lobby, and bar area.
“How many shows do you produce a season?”
Summer of 2024: if you are familiar with our past seasons, summer 2024 will be slightly scaled back due to housing limitations see show schedule for this year.
Past season We produced three to four shows on the main stage and four shows in the cabaret (plays and musicals.) We also produce one to two Saturday morning kids’ shows and a late Saturday night courtyard cabaret. In addition, we run a summer theatre camp for kids, teens, and adults.
“How long is a typical summer contract?
For 2024: Actors contracts will run 3 to 6 weeks. Some senior staff contracts run 10-14 weeks. Summer tech staff will primarily be in the early summer to build in advance of the season. Some designs will be jobbed in from one to two weeks during a specific show.
Staff and intern contracts run 10 to 12 weeks, starting in late May until mid-August. Actor’s contracts can be one show (3 weeks) or back-to-back shows (6 weeks). Some productions demand that actors sign back-to-back contracts. Some actors sign longer contracts depending on the show and the actor’s availability. Sometimes, we job-in set and costume designers for a shorter contract.
“What is a typical day like at the Barn? “
Well, there is nothing “typical” about a day in summer stock. In general, the company starts the day at 9:00 am. Each department will take lunch at their own scheduled time, usually btw 1:00 pm-2:00 pm. All work stops btw 4:30 and 5:00 pm for dinner break. After the dinner, there is a break. Depending on what department you work in, we will go back to work or prep for evening performances or evening work calls. Then, the whole thing starts again the next day.
“How do tech days off work?”
Staff day off will be either Sunday or Monday, depending on the performance and change-over schedule. Stage Managers and Box Office will alter days between Monday and Tuesday. Each department reserves the right to alter the schedule depending on the show’s progress.
“What is the rehearsal schedule days off like for the actors?”
Each show rehearses between 10-12 days, usually starting on a Sunday. We put together the show the first week, and tech will start the following Monday. The actors have a 24-hour rest period of tech week. Dress rehearsals are on Wednesday, previews are on Thursday, opening on a Friday, and closing the following Sunday (9 performances for a typical run; some shows run three weeks). If we contact you in back-to-back shows, the whole process starts again on the Sunday of opening weekend. This varies from show to show and year to year. The production following a 3-week run will have a little more time to rehearse. This schedule is always subject to change.
“Where do I stay when I am working at Millbrook? “
We house people in local rented homes. Every year is a bit different, pending availability. All accommodation is shared with others on staff, and people must share a bedroom. The accommodations are often located in Lock Haven, PA, or the surrounding area. Usually, it is a 5-10 minute drive from the theatre. There are exceptions pending housing availability.
Mill Hall is a small town, but there are plenty of places to shop and eat. We are conveniently located across from a Walmart and Sheetz. Lock Haven University is ten minutes away and a “bigger” small town. The downtown has some nice restaurants and stores. The area generally has a lower cost of living.
“Can I bring my car? “
Yes, it is highly recommended to bring your own vehicle. Millbrook has limited company vehicles, but if you don’t have a vehicle of your own, we may be able to accommodate getting you back and forth from the housing.
“How do I get to and from Mill Hall at the beginning and end of my contract?”
Round-trip travel bus fare NYC/Philly or the equivalent amount in travel reimbursement.
“How do I get cast in a show?”
To remain accessible for all, Millbrook will continue to hold virtual submission and virtual callback processes for the summer season.
The Millbrook Playhouse encourages everyone with every experience to submit to our summer season. Note that the age ranges and genders listed reflect those of the character, not the actor we will cast. Please submit for all characters for which you feel you would be appropriate. A Link to our diversity, equity, and inclusion pledge can be found in the “About Us” tab.
“Can I get EMC points if I work at Millbrook?”
We are a non-union company; therefore, we cannot give Equity points.
“How do I get hired in a staff position?”
You can submit a resume and cover letter. For designers, you must submit work samples. Don’t worry if you do not have a full portfolio; Millbrook is a great place to get a start as a designer, so something that shows potential is just fine. Please see our employment page for details.
“How do I apply for a tech internship?”
By submitting a resume and references. We hire interns to specialize in one department, i.e. props, costumes, lighting, company management, etc. Often, tech interns will float from department to department; some even end up on stage from time to time!
“Does everyone have to help with the strike?”
Yes, everyone, no exceptions! We will not assign you to anything you are uncomfortable with, but it’s a great way to learn a new skill. And there is always sweeping to do.
Word to the wise! Summer stock is an amazing opportunity to build your resume, learn on the job, and grow as an artist. You will work with people from all over the country and at various places in their careers. If you are willing to work hard and as a team, Millbrook can be the place for you. When accepting a contract at Millbrook, know you are joining a 60-year-old tradition of doing quality summer theatre in a unique place. The days can be long, but the rewards and the relationships will last longer!
A Christmas Story, the play By Philip Grecian. Based on the motion picture A Christmas Story, © 1983 Turner Entertainment Co., distributed by Warner Bros., written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, and Bob Clark; and on the book In God We Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shepherd.
ABOUT THE SHOW: Humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the midwest in the 1940s follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee’s Department Store. The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more. A Christmas Story is destined to become a theatrical holiday perennial.
CASTING BREAKDOWN
RALPH [Male identifying, 30-45] The adult version of Ralphie and the narrator of the play. Must be charismatic, a great storyteller, and able to carry the entire play. This actor also may play THE COWBOY, THE TREE LOT OWNER, THE DELIVERY MAN, and THE NEIGHBOR.
RALPHIE [Male identifying, 8-12] He is a bright, winsome, mischievous, and cute kid. The type that you wouldn’t mind having as a neighbor. Ralphie’s imagination tends to run wild at times as he dreams of the Red Ryder Carbine Action B.B. Gun he desires for Christmas.
MOTHER [Female identifying, 30-45] Ralphie’s mother is the force that keeps the household together. She holds a calm exterior despite the struggles thrown her way constantly by her husband and two children. She is vibrant, warm, and pleasant but is no pushover.
THE OLD MAN [Male identifying, 35-50] Ralphie’s father is a stern and grumbly individual. However, inside, he has a good heart and love for his family. He is more than willing to wear his frustrations on his sleeves, but he is not above reveling in some showmanship.
RANDY [Male identifying, 6-11] Ralphie’s younger brother. He is cute, cuddly, and lovable but also whiny. He revels in being the baby of the family to his advantage.
MISS SHIELDS [Female identifying, 25-45] Ralphie’s 5th-grade teacher is a stereotypical 1940s educator. She is prim, proper, stern when necessary, warm, and even humorous when the situation merits it.
FLICK [Male identifying, 8-12] Ralphie’s friend and classmate. Outspoken, with personality & humor. A weakling with a lot of heart.
SCHWARTZ [Male identifying, 8-12] Ralphie’s friend and classmate. He has just as much personality as Flick and never skips a chance to poke Flick’s injured arm.
ESTHER JANE ALBERRY [Female identifying, 8-12] A somewhat shy and sweet classmate of Ralphie’s who harbors a crush on him.
HELEN WEATHERS [Female identifying, 8-12] Extremely intelligent, high-achiever, and sure of herself. Helen is the brainiest girl in Ralphie’s class, but she could also beat up all the boys if she wanted to.
SCOUT FARKAS [Male identifying, 9-12] The school bully who goes after Ralphie and his friends. He should be highly intimidating; Scut is loud, obnoxious, and intimidating.
The Kids/Teen Ensemble is featured throughout the show. This group contains various classmates and supporting parts.
OLDER RALPH (pick two monologues)
Oler Ralph: Every neighborhood had them. The lines were clearly drawn- like a kid caste system- you were either a Bully, a Toady, or one of the nameless rabble of Victims. The bully of legend in Hohman, Indiana, was Scut Farkas. Scut Farkas. What a rotten name! What kind of parents would name their kid “Scut’? Still, I have to admit, the name fit him. He was a wiry, malevolent, sneevily, snively bully. His lips curled cruelly over green teeth, and he had yellow eyes. So help me, god, yellow eyes! Every kid I knew was afraid of Scut Farkas. If he acted friendly toward you- so much as said “Hi” to you, you dared to feel safe and warm inside. But mostly, he just hit you in the mouth.
Older Ralph: (softly, but still buoyant). Back in those days, you never asked yourself, “Do my parents love me?” It never crossed your mind. You were there. They took care of you. Their job was to raise you. Your job was to let them. When they said, “Don’t run with scissors,” or “Button your coat,” or …”You’ll shoot your eye out,” maybe even they didn’t know it but that’s what it was … love …(A beat.) That night, next to me in the darkness lay my cold, blue, steel beauty-the greatest gift I had ever received. Are you kiddin’? (Attempting to control his emotions.) My old man, my dad, gave it to me. That’s why it was the greatest gift I would ever receive. (After a moment, he returns to his usual narrative demeanor.) As the excitement of the day gradually subsided, I finally drifted off to sleep, pranging ducks on the wing and getting off spectacular hip shots.
Older Ralph: Tis the holiday season and Christmas fever is upon us. Windows are garlanded in red and green, yards are alight with plastic reinder and milling crowds of shoppers fill the streets, stores and malls. I put up my tree last week. Had to assemble it first. Then I threw an artificial yule log on the propane-augmented fire and began to reminisce about Christmases past. The holidays tend to do that. I found myself remembering another Christmas in another time… another place. And there it is. The house on Cleveland Street in Hohman, Indiana, where i spent the festering years of my childhood. This time every year, the wind would come and scream over frozen Lake Michigan, laying down great drifts of snow. The air would crack and sing and power lines would creak under caked ice. Christmas was on its way. Lovely, beautiful, glorious Christmas, around which the entire kid year revolved.
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MISS SHIELDS
Miss Shields: Margins! Margins! Margins! Why don’t they listen? Why don’t they learn? Semicolon, you dolt, not period! Oh, I can’t take this anymore. But I must! It is my duty! One more! Just one more! (Takes a theme from the top of a pile and reads:) “Ralph Parker” (Rolls her eyes.) Ha! (Reads silently.) Why… why … this is… is good. This is…it’s wonderful (She clutches it to her bosom as the music swells.) The theme I’ve been waiting for all my life! It validates my existence! The prose… it.. it sings! “…legendary official Red Ryder 200-Shot Carbine Action Range Model Air Rifle with a compass and this thing which tells time built right into the stock!” Why, this isn’t prose! It’s poetry! Sheer poetry! Iam transported! It out Shakespeares Shakespeare! (She stands and sweeps the stacks of themes from her desk.) These are not worthy to be in such close proximity to this… this … masterpiece! Let the word go out, past is prologue! The history of theme writing begins here! (She turns and writes on the board, “Ralph Parker A+++++++++”- adding plusses until she runs out of blackboard.
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THE OLD MAN AND MOTHER (Read monologue and scene)
(Monologue) The Old Man: Omigosh! Do you know what this is? Would you believe it? It’s a lamp! Isn’t it great? What a great lamp! Hold it. I know just the place for it … right in the middle of our front room window. Let’s see… the radio… the Christmas tree… This goes to (sparks. A puff of smoke rises; a floor lamp in the corner winks out, and the lights on the Christmas tree go off). I meant to do that. Nothin’ to worry about. Got it under control. Just a minute…and…there! Oh! Look at that! Will you look at that! Isn’t glorious? It’s…It’s indescribably beautiful! It reminds me of the Fourth of July! I’ve gotta see what it looks like from the street!
(Monologue) Mother: Ready to tell me where you heard that word? Oh. I see. (she puts the soap back into his mouth and crosses to the wall phone) Hello, Mrs.Schwartz? Yes, I’m fine. Mrs.Schwartz, do you know what word Ralph said this evening? He said,…(cups a hand around the mouthpiece and mumbles) Yes. That. And do you know where he heard it? No, he heard it from your son. (Mother hands up and crosses back to Raphie; she takes the soap from his mouth)All right. That’s enough now. Rinse out. Now go on upstairs to bed. No lights and no comic books, you understand? If I see any lights on, I’ll come up there.
SCENE- Old Man and Mother:
THE OLD MAN: The turkey! The Bumpus hounds got the turkey! (He carries the roaster out to the yard.) Here, you hounds of hell! Take the pan, too! (He flings the roasting pan over the fence. Now he has momentum go-ing, and races back into the kitchen, grabbing a pan and a covered basket and racing back to the yard.) Why don’t you take the sweet potatoes, too?! (He flings the pan over the fence.) And the rolls! (He throws the cover off the basket and begins lobbing dinnet rolls, one by its dial glowing in the darkness. A dim light comes on up the stairs and mother comes down to the landing, then crosses to the door and checks to make sure it is locked. She crosses to the tree.)
THE OLD MAN: (quietly). What are you doing?
MOTHER: Oh, I didn’t know you were there. I was going to turn off the tree lights… get ready for bed.
THE OLD MAN: (holds out his arm). Come over here. (She moves to him.) Look. (He points out the window at the falling snow. She sits on the arm of his chair.)
MOTHER: Oh! It’s beautiful.
THE OLD MAN: (after a moment). You know … that lamp…
MOTHER: I’m sorry I broke it.
THE OLD MAN: Well…it was… it was really pretty jazzy.
A little too much for this room.
MOTHER: I thought it was… pretty.
THE OLD MAN: Nah. Too pink. We should get some kind of… 1 dunno.. brass lamp in here.
MOTHER: Maybe you’re right. (She snuggles closer.) You’re always right.
THE OLD MAN: You have a good Christmas?
MOTHER: Mm-hm. You?
THE OLD MAN: Mm-hm. (Pause.) ‘Specially the duck.
MOTHER: Oh, you! (They laugh together as the music segues to a celesta playing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas)