Open Audition Notice:

“Puffs, OR: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​

​

 

Director: Tony Kortas

 

Red Mask will hold open auditions for our upcoming production of “Puffs, OR: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic” by Matt Cox. The play premiered at The People's Improv Theater on December 3, 2015. It moved to the Off-Broadway theater New World Stages in 2016. The show has been praised for its comedy and staging. It was nominated for the Off-Broadway Alliance Award for "Best Unique Theatrical Experience" in 2017.

 

As this is a flexible cast, Red Mask is seeking approximately 15 to 20 teen actors for this production. Auditions are open to all body types, and all ethnicities are welcome.

  

Audition Dates:
Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 1 pm
Monday, April 29, 2024 at 7 pm

 

​

Auditions will consist of reading from sides. ​

Most characters have British accents, so if auditioners are able to do so, they should attempt to use a British accent.

If any auditioner can perform a magic trick(s), they should be prepared to do them at auditions.

  

 

Show Dates:

June 14, 2024, at 7:30 PM
June 15 - 16, 2024, at 2 PM

June 21 - 22, 2024, at 7:30 PM

June 23, 2024, at 2 PM

 

Audition Location:
The Kathryn Randolph Theater
601 N Vermilion St

Danville, IL 61832

 

Show Synopsis:
"Puffs, OR: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic" is a play written by Matt Cox. Puffs offers a fresh perspective on a dangerous wizard school (you know the one) through the eyes of the Puffs, one of the four houses at a particular school of magic (you know the one), known for not being particularly brave, clever, or cunning, but instead for being just, well, nice. It's a tale that explores friendship, failure, and finding one's identity in the shadow of greatness. The story focuses on a group of magical misfits, mainly three friends: Wayne, Oliver, and Megan, as they navigate the challenges of school life, magical mayhem, and the rise of a certain dark wizard.

 

Character Breakdown:

The casting for this production offers some flexibility. Below is a list of the main characters. Aside from Wayne, Oliver, and Megan, all other characters will be expected to portray multiple roles throughout the show.

 

Wayne Hopkins: A nerdy orphan wizard boy with British roots though raised in America. Wayne is at the heart of our story, embodying the spirit of discovery and growth as he navigates the magical world.

​

Oliver Rivers: A sharp and resourceful mathematician wizard from the U.S., though in the world of magic, not a strong wizard wizard. He is, though, a loyal friend to Wayne and Megan, a true Puff.

 

Megan Jones: The daughter of the notorious Xavia Jones (a Puff gone bad), Megan firmly believes her destiny lies in the Snake's house. She speaks as an American to deny her roots and show her rebellious nature.

 

Narrator: Not just a storyteller, but the mature embodiment of Wayne (or Wayna) Rivers-Jones, reflecting on the past. This role requires a presence that can weave the tale of our heroes' journey with wisdom and a touch of nostalgia.

 

Cedric: The quintessential Puff leader at the magic school. Cedric's character is pivotal, embodying the virtues and challenges of being a Puff in a world filled with magic and rivalry.

 

Mr. Voldy: A dark lord with sinister plans to dominate the school and defeat a certain famous child wizard. This role demands a versatile actor, as they will also portray Cedric, requiring a seamless switch from heroic to evil.

 

Susie Bones: Living under the shadow of her family's demise, Susie is a Puff whose fear of death colors her daily. Her vulnerability and inner strength are crucial to her character.

 

J Finch Fletchley: Flamboyant, joyous, and unapologetically happy, J Finch represents the spirit of positivity within the Puffs. His character brings lightness and humor to the story.

 

Sally Perks: A near-sighted Puff who refuses to wear glasses because she gets more attention without them. Sally's discovery of the power of perception and attention offers a unique perspective on the experiences of youth.

 

Ernie Mac: Overflowing with confidence, Ernie is self-obsessed yet charming. His Puff pride and individualism stand out, making him a memorable character.

 

Hannah: A shy Puff, Hannah's innocence, and naivety about the school's social dynamics highlight her purity and the challenges she faces amidst the houses' rivalries.

 

Leanne: An eager Puff with a hunger for friendship, Leanne's upbringing as an only child fuels her desire to connect with others in the magical school environment.

 

Zach Smith: The sports team's coach, Zach, delivers a unique monologue nightly, showcasing the actor's improv skills (though a scripted monologue is available for those less comfortable with improvisation). This role requires flexibility, as the actor will also play another main character.

​

 

We warmly invite all interested parties to audition with us. Whether stepping onto the stage for the first time or looking to add another role to your acting portfolio, Red Mask welcomes you to partake in the magic of "Puffs." We look forward to discovering new talent and bringing this enchanting story to life together.