Dec. 1-2: Theatre department open auditions for “Clyde’s”

Think you can make the perfect sandwich? The College of Lake County (CLC) theatre department invites actors age 18 and older to audition for its upcoming production of “Clyde’s,” the acclaimed comedy by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage. Auditions are 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1 and Tuesday, Dec. 2 in the Studio Theatre at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake.

In “Clyde’s,” a truck stop sandwich shop offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption. Even as the shop’s callous owner tries to keep them down, the staff learn to reclaim their lives, find purpose and become inspired to dream by their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. Variety calls this play a “flavor-bomb of a comedy about survival, second chances and digesting whatever life serves up.”

Those auditioning should prepare a 90-second to two-minute memorized contemporary monologue from a play of their choice. After presenting a monologue, actors may be asked to read from the script with another performer. Participants need only attend one audition date. If available, actors are encouraged to bring a resume. Callbacks are 6:30-10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4.

Rehearsals begin the week of Jan. 12 and will run Monday through Thursday evenings, with potential weekend sessions depending on cast availability. Tech week is scheduled for Feb.16-21. Performances will take place Feb. 27-March 7. Individuals should confirm availability for all dates before auditioning.

All roles portray characters who are formerly incarcerated and rebuilding their lives. Actors must be 18 or older. The script contains adult language and themes.

• Clyde

  30s-50s. Black. Fierce and sexy. She’s lived with gusto and no apology. Great comedic chops. Able to change the temperature of a room with an entrance. Wicked. Runs truck stop.

• Montrellous

  30s-50s. Black. Wise, talented and cool. He is mindful, interested in healing. Kind. Working class. Sensitive and caring, particularly to the younger generation. Uses cooking as a means of meditation.

• Rafael

  20s. Latinx. He is a romantic. Loves food. Fun. Playful. Recovering. Working to find a more spiritual path. Full of charm. Terrified of his boss.

• Letitia

  20s. Black. She is direct, self-possessed. Recently released from prison, she is trying to build her life up again. Mother to a daughter with health issues, her job is important to her even when the atmosphere is toxic. A romantic. She is a survivor and has life skills. She is working towards building a mindful path. Very funny.

• Jason

  20s-30s. White. Working class. Moody. Protective, but Funny. Dealing with past white supremacist affiliation. Goes from being seen as a threat to being open and vulnerable.

For additional information, contact Craig Rich at crich@clcillinois.edu or Lamaiya Lancaster at llancaster@clcillinois.edu.

CLC’s theatre department offers numerous opportunities for students and community members to showcase their artistry and participate in concerts, festivals and productions throughout the year. Auditions are open to students and community members. Notices are posted on campus and online at jlcenter.clcillinois.edu/auditions.