I Hate Hamlet
A Comedy by Paul Rudnick
Directed by: Stavros Sakiadis
SHOW DATES AND TIMES
• May 7 – 17 matinee and evening performances
SYNOPSIS
TV star Andrew Rally moves to New York and reluctantly takes on the role of Hamlet. Living in the former home of legendary actor John Barrymore, Andrew is visited by Barrymore’s ghost, who insists on mentoring him. As Andrew struggles with self-doubt, a tempting Hollywood offer, and his romantic life, he must choose between artistic integrity and fame. With razor-sharp wit, comedic antics, and a touch of ghostly wisdom, I Hate Hamlet explores the timeless struggle between commercial success and artistic fulfillment.
CHARACTERS
Felicia Dantine (playing age 30s-50s)
Andrew’s bold, enthusiastic, real estate broker, who is fascinated with the world of theatre and claims to have a sense of the supernatural. Ability to do a New York accent is a plus, but not required.
Andrew Rally (playing age 30s)
A popular, handsome, charming TV star whose series has just been cancelled. He has reluctantly moved into John Barrymore’s apartment and agreed to take on the role of Hamlet for a Shakespeare in the Park production, even though he has no interest.
Dierdre McDavey (playing age mid-20/30)
Andrew’s naive girlfriend from a privileged background, a bubbly, hopeless romantic, and the cause of Andrew’s sexual frustration. She is overjoyed that her boyfriend is going to play Hamlet, much more than he is and fancies herself the heroine of some classic tale.
Lillian Troy (playing age 70s)
Andrew’s agent, who has had a history with John Barrymore. She is a frank, take-no-crap, powerful woman with a dry sense of humour. The ability to do a German accent is a plus.
John Barrymore (playing age late 30s-50s)
The ghost of the famous larger-than-life actor whose mission is to convince Andrew to play Hamlet. A dashing rake with a cutting wit and unapologetic hedonism. He is/was the best and he knows it. Stage combat experience a plus.
Gary Peter Leftowitz (playing age 30s)
Hot-shot LA TV writer/producer/director with no true appreciation for theatre, especially Shakespeare. Shamelessly exuberant and is very happy with his high life; he’d like for Andrew to keep making big bucks in a new show.
Need more information? Contact Director Stavros Sakiadis(stavros.sakiadis@gmail.com) or Production Manager Trina Malcolmson (trinamalc13@gmail.com)
AUDITION DATES & TIMES
Tues. Jan. 28, 7-10 pm & Thur. Jan 30, 7-10 pm
All auditions will take place on stage at the Kanata Theatre
Rehearsals will start Sunday, February 23, 2025 (1 pm to 4 pm) with a Monday, Wednesday (7 pm to 10 pm) and Sunday (1 pm to 4 pm). A few Friday evenings will be added for fight choreography.
First Read-through date TBD
REGISTRATION
Please register for the auditions here.
Once your audition has been secured, a link to the sides will be provided via email from the production manager. You are requested to arrive at least 15 minutes early to sign in and have your picture taken.
