Auditions: Swallow the Fly

HLT Studio is now looking to cast Swallow the Fly, an original work written and directed by Rory Janssen. For more information and to book your audition time contact the director at roryjanssen@gmail.com.

Season: 7 – 10 October, 2020

About the Play
When Marlene and her uncontrollable hoarding are about to destroy the family home, her son, Jack, gets more than he bargained for. Facing loss and personal tragedy, Jack learns that we can never truly get rid of everything that comes between us and the choices that define who we are. Swallow the Fly is an original New Zealand play and is being staged for the very first time at Howick Little Theatre. A story about miscommunication and the breaking of bonds, whether that be between family or friends. It is a story about coming to terms with loss, being willing to let go and being able to accept people as they are and not how we want them to be. Full of laughs and a few tears along the way, Swallow the Fly promises to be an engaging and unforgettable piece of theatre for all involved.

About the Director
Rory Janssen is a recent graduate of the University of Auckland with a degree in Drama and Psychology. He has studied Drama at industry leading institutions such as Toi Whakaari, Acting for Screen at South Seas Film and Television School and Performing and Screen Arts at Unitec Institute of Technology. Both on and off stage, Rory has been involved in various shows across the Auckland region. He has run drama groups for people with disabilities and participated in festivals such as InterACT, Going West and Auckland Fringe. As a director, he always looks forward to creating genuine and compelling pieces of theatre and working with actors to craft moving and truthful performances, bringing out the best in every aspect of the production.

The Cast (Age ranges are indicative only)
JACK: (early 20s) The only son of a single-parent home. Although a cynical and jaded young man, he is not without compassion and vulnerability. – A large and challenging role but perfect for an actor willing to explore a range of emotionality, find subtlety and bring the audience into their world.

MARLENE: (40-60s) Jack’s argumentative and uncooperative mother. A prolific hoarder, unwilling to let go of anything from her past. – Although at first it may not seem it, this character is in many ways the heart of the show. Requires a big personality but one with dimensionality and believability. Someone who is tough but also compassionate.

SARJ: (early 20s) The childhood friend of Jack. Easy-going and down to earth. Big fan of rice-crackers. – With sincerity, warmth, and good humour; this role requires an actor who can keep things light but also be genuine and truthful. Someone who can be irreverent but also heartfelt.

OWEN: (40-60s) Jack’s absentee father who has spent the last thirteen years abroad. A bit clueless but well intentioned. – This role requires an actor who can quickly engender an audience’s sympathies and have them on their side in an instant. They should be open and honest, perhaps a bit timid or unsure of themselves, but they will also need to be able to hold the audience in the palm of their hand and do it in a way that feels real and honest at all times. *preferably a British accent.

MOVER: (any age) A working class man or woman. Irreverent, charismatic and fancies themselves a bit of a storyteller. Great for someone who is not afraid of a bit of improvisation and interacting with members of the audience, a role an actor could really make their own and have a lot of fun with.

YOUNG BOY: (7-10yrs) Jack’s childhood self. A small role, perfect for a young actor keen to get some experience on stage.