Worc at Play Auditions

About Worc at Play

Worc at Play welcomes applicants ages 18+ for a tuition-free classical actor training and performance program, offered in partnership with The Hanover Theatre Conservatory.

Applicants of all backgrounds and skill levels are warmly encouraged to apply, including absolute beginners.

Ideal Worc at Play candidates are:

• Residents of greater Worcester
• 18 or older
• Diverse in age, ethnicity, socioeconomic class, gender, sexual orientation, immigrant status and lived experience
• Not affiliated with or a member of Actors’ Equity Association
• Comfortable speaking and reading English as a first, second or subsequent language (accents welcome)
• Disciplined, rigorous and reliable
• Joyful
• Available for and eager to commit to a demanding schedule

Additionally, Worc at Play trainees receive:

• Full student benefits of The Hanover Theatre Conservatory (THTC)
• Up to two private lessons with THTC instructor of their choice
• Professional headshot
• $500 stipend (returning students only)

Worc at Play is fully subsidized, meaning the program is available at absolutely no cost. Selected applicants receive professional, conservatory-style actor training and a professional performance opportunity, all tuition-free.

Due to the professional nature of the program, trainees are required to meet certain standards regarding attendance and preparation. Failure to meet expectations will result in dismissal from the program.

2024 Dates + Productions

The 2024 training period is from February 21 – March 11, 2024. Class will be held Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights from 6 PM – 9 PM on the campus of The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory, including the Jean McDonough Arts Center (JMAC). Validated garage parking is available.

The 2024 productions are Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, playing in rotating repertory with Judith, by Katie Bender, directed by Brendon Fox. Please click here for a full calendar for Worc at Play 2024, including classes, rehearsals and performances.

Audition Date, Time + Details

Friday, December 8, 2023
15-Minute Appointments, 6 PM – 9 PM

Jean McDonough Arts Center
20 Franklin Street, Worcester, MA 01608
jmacworcester.org

Parking is available at the Federal Plaza Garage, 570 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01608.

For your audition, please memorize and be prepared to act 10-20 lines of Shakespeare to the best of your ability, even if you’re an absolute beginner! We will not judge you. On the contrary, we want to see your natural instincts, talents, stage presence and potential for growth as a performer.

Please note: Your 10-20 lines should be in the form of a monologue, meaning all the lines appear in a row and are spoken by the same character. For a convenient listing of monologues, visit shakespeare-monologues.org.

Additionally, please be prepared to share any other performance skills you may have, like juggling, singing, dancing, magic, mime, stand-up comedy or spoken word, etc.

Finally, please be prepared to share why you want to be part of this program. 

If you have a question or need assistance, please email [email protected] with subject line Worc at Play Auditions.

Thank you!