FREE NEO-COMMEDIA WORKSHOPS followed by (also free) AUDITIONS
The Conspirators are looking for actors and physical theater performers to join us in a FREE Neo-Commedia (a.k.a. "The Style") workshop series in advance of casting our May/June production of Chicago Cop Macbeth. Get a taste of what it's like to work in our performance style, be considered for our shows, and “Dare to be Stupid”!
The SIX WORKSHOP DATES are Mondays and Wednesdays, March 3, 5, 10, 12, 17 and 19, 2025. AUDITIONS for Chicago Cop Macbeth will then be the week after workshops, March 24 & 26. Note: This will indeed be Shakespeare’s Macbeth with some adaptations, performed entirely in The Style. All roles are open.
What is "The Style"? It's an original performance style initially developed by Los Angeles stalwarts The Actors' Gang and Chicago's own New Crime Productions. Our brand of Neo-Commedia combines the basics of classic Commedia dell'Arte with intense emotional states and influences from Kabuki, Kathakali, Bugs Bunny, and a high-energy punk-rock aesthetic that a critic once called "a coke-fueled clown nightmare." In the workshops, we’ll be creating archetypal characters in exaggerated costume and makeup and putting you up on stage from the get-go. For reference, check out our website!
Since this is a niche performance style, no prior experience in Commedia dell’Arte, improv, or other forms we noted above is necessary. We’ll be with you every step of the way to help you develop the skills and create. BIPOC and LGBTQ+ performers are highly encouraged to take part—step up front!
TO SUBMIT FOR THE WORKSHOPS, email us your headshot and resume to conspire@conspirewithus.org, with the subject line “March25_Workshops_FIRSTNAME_LASTNAME”. In your submission, include in the email body if you are interested in the auditions as well as the workshop and whether have access to or need to be provided: whiteface makeup (i.e., clown white, color wheel, brushes).
Once we receive your materials, we'll reach out with next steps and full audition information. Feel free to email the same address with any questions.
THIS IS A QUICK TURNAROUND (sorry) SO PLEASE SUBMIT ASAP. Capacity of workshops is limited, so the sooner you send in your materials, the more likely you'll snag a spot.
HEALTH: Please be vaccinated and boosted for you-know-what-19.
Want to join in, but can't make all the dates? We may be able to squeeze you in. Let us know in your response how many days could take part. The more you're there, the better, but we may accommodate if there is available room and if you're a good fit for the workshops or show.
