Civil War Journeys Auditions

SHOW INFORMATION

Step back in time and experience the poignant and captivating tale of “Civil War Journeys.” Written and directed by John Woodruff, this compelling play takes you on a heartfelt journey through the hardships, sacrifices, and triumphs of three couples during the tumultuous era of the Civil War.

Set against the backdrop of one of the most transformative periods in American history, “Civil War Journeys” weaves together the stories of three couples as they navigate the unforgiving realities of war. Inspired by true events, the play follows a farmer and his best friend on their harrowing journey through the battlefields, highlighting the indomitable spirit that binds them.

In addition, “Civil War Journeys” shines a light on the complex and arduous road to freedom of a courageous slave. Through dialogue and harmonious melodies, the power of music illuminates the emotional landscape of the era, with an on-stage chorus witnessing the events and performing poignant songs like “Let My People Go” and “Somebody’s Darling.”

Prepare to be moved by the extraordinary tales of love, resilience, and humanity in “Civil War Journeys.” Don’t miss this captivating production that brings history to life on stage.

AUDITION INFORMATION

Auditions for “Civil War Journeys” will be held on August 19th. Callbacks, if needed, will be on August 20th.

Each auditionee will be asked to do a reading from the show and sing a song of your choice, preferably Civil War era style, but any song that showcase your voice will work.

Performances will be October 13-15 & 20-23.

If you have any questions, please email Jennifer Gronewold at jengronewold@yahoo.com or John Woodruff at gruncle1@yahoo.com.

AUDITION REGISTRATION (MANDATORY)

Sign up for your audition time slot here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/508044eaca829a1fb6-civil?useFullSite=true#/

All auditionees must also fill out an audition form prior to auditions. Fill out the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdmr6BzwERIMCWf8LFp0pX0AmqTAObcbVpki1OrWYCNm-FJlQ/viewform

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

Parts that require a specific race/ethnicity are indicated below.

Lead Characters

  • Rafe: An escaped slave. 20’s – 30’s Base/Baritone (Black / African Descent)
  • Bess: Young slave girl living with Rafe. Teens – 20’s. Alto (Black / African Descent)
  • Levi: An Ohio farmer. 20’s – 30’s. Base/Baritone
  • Sarah: Levi’s wife. 20’s – 30’s. Soprano
  • Zeke: An itinerant Sutler selling goods to the army. 20’s – 40’s. Tenor/Baritone
  • Effie: A waitress who falls in love with Zeke. Teens – 20’s. Soprano/Alto

Supporting Characters

  • Will: A teacher and Levi’s friend. 30’s – 40’s
  • Jim: Rafe’s friend during the war. 20’s – 30’s
  • Anne: Levi’s sister. Mid-teens
  • Sergeant Travis: Zeke’s contact with the Army. 20’s – 40’s
  • Lottie: A conductor on the Underground Railroad. 20’s – 50’s
  • Laurie: A member of the plantation household staff. 30’s – 50’s (Black / African Descent)

Additional Characters

  • Trader: A man searching for escaped slaves
  • Dan: A member of a road gang
  • Boss: The boss of the road gang
  • Cal: A member of Rafe’s Regiment
  • Orderly: A corps member taking care of battle casualties
  • Joe: Another member of Rafe’s Regiment
  • Soldiers: Several members of the Military including Sergeants and Lieutenants (Various race/ethnicity)
  • Additional Chorus members: Filling various other roles (Various race/ethnicity)