The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College (SSC) will hold open auditions for the baseball comedy Bleacher Bums. Auditions will take place Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 14, 2022, beginning at 7 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center.
In the bleachers at Chicago’s Wrigley Field, die-hard Cubs fans root for their team. Members of the group include a sun-worshipper, a blind man who follows the game by transistor radio, a professional gambler, a husband and wife, and a nerd. There are also two voice over roles available.
Director Paul Braun of Highland, IN, will cast 7 men and 2 women, of all races and ethnicities, ranging in age from 16 to 70 plus. Braun is planning evening rehearsals. The show, collaboratively written by members of Chicago’s Organic Theater Company from an idea by actor Joe Mantegna, is set to perform during the last two weekends in September.
All community members and SSC students are encouraged to audition. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes, which will be available at the time of auditions. Those who audition should be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.
“We’re excited to be back in the swing of things,” said Ellie Shunko, manager of the Kindig Performing Arts Center. “COVID has kept our theatre dark for too long and we’re itching to flip those stage lights on and welcome the community back to our stage.”
In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also seeking volunteers interested in working backstage. “Putting on a play takes a lot of hands,” said Shunko. “We hope that those who aren’t ready to step on stage will enjoy working backstage on lighting, sets and props.”
For character descriptions, a rehearsal schedule and more information about this production, visit the SSC Kindig Performing Arts Center Facebook page or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu. The Kindig Performing Arts Center is located on the Main Campus of South Suburban College at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL.
