EQUITY AUDITIONS
Artemisia
by Laura M. Gunderson
Directed by Taylor Staniforth
Equity Auditions: December 4 (12-7pm) + Callbacks by appointment December 6 (6pm-11pm)
First Rehearsal: On or around January 8
Performance Dates: February 1 - 24, 2024
Equity Audition | Sign Ups + Materials
• Follow the button below to sign up for an audition slot and submit materials.
• Please bring a copy of your headshot and resume, if you have them, to the theatre on the day of your audition.
• Sides are provided below. Copies of the sides will be available at the audition.
• Choose sides for the character you are most interested in
• Please email ashleywhite@circletheatre.com if all slots fill
1. Submit your headshot/resume, if you have them
2. Select Your Timeslot - please note, slots continue below, use down arrows to access all slots
ABOUT THE SHOW | A COPY OF THE SCRIPT IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST AT THE THEATRE
Gunderson’s newest work, Artemisia is “A visceral, sexy, full force true story of a radical feminist artist that shook up Italian Baroque painting.”
So why don’t we know her name?
Artemisia Gentileschi was the most celebrated female painter of the 17th century, yet her name was all but lost for centuries. Attacked at just seventeen, publicly shamed and tortured to prove her truth, Gentileschi nevertheless fought for her art and the freedom to make it on her own terms. She painted women from history, myth, and religion as protagonists of their stories or equal to men lacking the “classic feminine traits” of sensitivity, weakness, and timidity. Her work was bold in every way.
Complex and true to herself, Artemisia is a woman. Strong. Powerful. True. Gunderson’s Artemisia is a work of humor and warmth that celebrates the courage, artistry, and humanity of a woman who attacked the glass ceiling with every brush stroke.
Circle Theatre is committed to being a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We are committed to providing an equal opportunity for all artists, whatever their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability. We respect and value diverse life experiences and will ensure that all voices are valued and heard. Please read the script and choose sides for the character who appeals to you the most.
SEEKING | CHARACTERS (5-6)
Artemisia Gentileschi - (17) feisty, smart, strong, confident, frustrated, stuck — Artemisia stands as a woman ahead of her era, her extraordinary talents and unwavering commitment to her art transcending the conventional boundaries imposed upon women. Fearlessly diving into confrontations and unapologetically speaking her mind, she exudes an undeniable force.
Also plays:
Prudenzia Figlia - (16-20s) her daughter, sweet natured and mischievous — though perhaps in the shadow of her mother's fierce spirit, she doesn’t seem bothered. She embodies a love that carries a lighter touch. Unlike her mother, she has been fortunate to escape the same suffering, benefiting from a new time with new opportunities and a greater degree of freedom. Yet, in her own unique manner, she radiates a captivating force – a force that is gentler in touch but resounds louder in its own right.
Artemisia Madre - (30s-50) feistier, smarter, stronger, more confident, quick-witted, fierce, talented, pioneering, intelligent — now in the later chapters of her life, has evolved into a more grounded version of her quick-witted and fiery younger self (though there’s plenty of that still there). Her years have only deepened her talents and pioneering spirit, making her a figure of profound intelligence and strength. She has been through many deep hardships in her life—she is not naive to believe those are over.
Prudenzia Madre - (40s) her mother - kind and steady, watchful, loyal, patient — She is a watchful presence, offering unwavering loyalty and patience to those she holds dear. With a heart that remains steadfast and a caring eye that never wavers, she is a comforting and supportive force in Artemisia's life.
Also plays:
Grand Duchess Christina of Lorraine, hilarious and flighty, commands every room she walks into, intoxicating — is a captivating presence, known for her infectious humor and flighty nature. With every step she takes, she effortlessly commands the attention of the room, leaving those around her enchanted by her intoxicating charm and wit. She, too, is a formidable woman adept at making the male-dominated world pay attention and bend.
Orazio - (40s-60s) her father - a talented and famous painter. He shares Artemisia's strong-willed nature but leans towards a more brutish demeanor—he is often concerned with how he and the family appear to others. He carries an underlying sense of frustration, having very little ability to understand a daughter like Artemisia— though he recognizes her talent.
Francesco - (40s) Passionate, loyal, emotional — stands as a devoted lover, friend, and confidant to Artemisia. He is a genuinely good-hearted individual, brimming with passion, unwavering loyalty, and deep emotional sensitivity. His unwavering support and compassion make him a pillar of strength in Artemisia's life. A really good guy.
Circle Theatre is committed to being a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We are committed to providing an equal opportunity for all artists, whatever their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education or disability. We respect and value diverse life experiences and will ensure that all voices are valued and heard.
Equity and Non-Equity Members encouraged to audition - Equity Contracts Available. Circle Theatre is a member of the Equity Membership Candidacy program.
Per AEA regulations, we are asking that all actors and crew are vaccinated.
More audition information included on the signup form. Auditions will take place in person at Circle Theatre. Please park in "Sundance Square Garage 3".
+ member SDC
CONTENT WARNING | Language borrowed from Forward Theatre Company
This play and its contents are based on the life of Artemisia Gentileschi, the most celebrated female painter of the 17th century. The play Artemisia is a dramatization of her life and not meant to be interpreted as a documentary. However, the major events of this production are largely based on true events.
Themes and content include:
• An accounting and discussion (not depiction) of Artemisia’s rape at the age of 17, including the immediate aftermath. Some blood is seen in the scene.
• A depiction of Artemisia’s testimony at the trial of her rapist and Artemisia’s physical torture with a sibile (a device made of string that is tightened around the fingers).
• The portrayal of grief related to the death of a child
• The death of a parent.
This list is not meant to cover all possible instances that may be disturbing for an audience member. If you have specific questions, please email hello@circletheatre.com
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If you have any questions please contact hello@circletheatre.com or call Circle Theatre's Box Office, 817.877.3040
Box Office hours: 12pm - 5pm, Tuesday-Friday