UBU
Hello, fellow artists and collaborators!
This is a new translation of of Alfred Jarry’s absurdist classic, Ubu Rex by Denver Hoffman and Ramona Rotten
It
is a chaotic descent into greed, power, and farce. This grotesque
comedy centers on the tyrannical rise and fall of the monstrous Papa and
Mama Ubu (and is a fun spoof of Macbeth to boot). All other
characters, from nobles to peasants to ghosts, will be played by a
versatile ensemble of three actors, demanding sharp physicality, quick
character changes, and strong comedic instincts. Expect the unexpected.
Here's what we are looking for:
Actors:
- PAPA UBU (1 Actor - male presenting, any age, may be played by a woman in masc drag, any race/ethnicity)
A childish tyrant driven by greed, cowardice, and unchecked ambition. Brutal, buffoonish, and shamelessly self-serving. Requires strong physical comedy and a fearless sense of the absurd. Anchors the play’s satirical bite. - MAMA UBU (1 Actor - female presenting, any age, may be played by a man in femme drag, any race/ethnicity)
Manipulative, cunning, and power-hungry—often the smarter half of the Ubus. She goads Papa toward ever more outrageous acts. Bold, brash, and sharply funny. Strong physicality and command of tone needed to balance menace with comedy. - ENSEMBLE (3 ACTORS – any gender, any age, any race/ethnicity)
These three dynamic performers will play all other roles, including but not limited to: Captain Bordure (military ally turned rival) King Wenceslas (naïve ruler) Bugrelas (vengeful royal son) Nobles, Soldiers, Peasants, Ghosts, and more
Ensemble actors must be highly versatile, adept at quick character changes, physical storytelling, vocal transformation, and stylized performance. Experience with political satire, clown, or ensemble-devised work is a plus.
Creative Team: Note: You are welcome to apply to multiple positions.
- Assistant Director/Stage Manager: Seeking a multi-talented individual who can help shape the vision of this piece and assist with organization and communication during rehearsals and performances.
- Lighting Designer/Board Op: This production will feature experimental, (and hopefully) live sound elements. If you are a noise artist, sound designer, or musician, we would love to hear from you.
- Design Assistant: Help designing, crafting and sourcing materials for the sets/costumes/etc.
Audition Deadline: 06/19
Notification Deadline: 06/26
Rehearsal Dates: July 5th - August 10th
, Saturday and Sunday Mornings/Afternoons (Short Rehearsals on
Saturdays, Long Rehearsals on Sundays) at Danztheatre and an additional
location (TBD).
Performance Dates: August 12th - August 17th at 7:30pm at Danztheatre
Stipend: 100.00 per collaborator
To submit, please fill out the following form no later than 06/19:
For Performers:
Attach your resume, a photo of yourself (doesn't need to be a fancy head shot, anything where we can see your face will do) and attach/link a self-tape (can be something you previously submitted, a poem, a performance art piece, anything that you feel shows off your talent). We are looking for comedic talent in particular for this piece. Don't be afraid to go over the top.
For Creative Team:
Attach your resume
LGBTQIA and BIPOC and Femme collaborators highly encouraged to apply
