Worc at Play

Offered in partnership with The Hanover Theatre Conservatory, Worc at Play runs each year in conjunction with a THT Rep mainstage production. Applicants of all backgrounds and skill levels are warmly encouraged to audition, including absolute beginners.  Selected applicants form a small cohort that studies with Livy Scanlon, artistic director of THT Rep, during a four-week training period. Students learn the fundamentals of acting Shakespearean text, and at the end of the training period join the cast of a THT Rep production.   

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 rigorous standards regarding attendance and preparation. 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

Scroll through to see Worc at Play students in class and on stage.

I was born and raised in Worcester and love everything to do with theatre. With Worc at Play, I had the chance to learn and perform alongside real, professional, working actors. It was quite literally a dream come true. Opening up the world of professional theatre to a wider group of aspiring actors is exactly what the art scene in Worcester needs. This opportunity was a complete game changer.

Cassie Tortorici, Worc at Play actor