APT seeking black actors for "The Island"

Auditions for roles in Allentown Public Theatre's April-May production of "The Island" will be held Saturday, January 9, 11am-2pm, at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 417 N. 7th St., Allentown. (There is free parking in the church lot. Please enter through the courtyard.)

"The Island," set during South Africa's period of apartheid, is a semi-autobiographical play written by actors John Kani and Winston Ntshona, and director Athol Fugard. It tells the story of two inmates on Robben Island (the prison where Nelson Mandela was held). They labor under cruel conditions by day, but at night, they prepare for a prison performance of "Antigone." The Greek tragedy has special meaning to these political prisoners who have rebelled against an oppressive state.

Black actors only – male and female – are encouraged to audition. (Note: While the characters in the play are male, we are also considering casting females.) Please notify APT's artistic director, Anna Russell (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), if you intend to audition. She will email actors the script of The Island in advance so that you can become familiar with it before reading. Actors should also prepare two contrasting monologues and be prepared to stay for the full three hours. You are welcome, but not required, to bring resumes and head shots.

"The Island" will open April 23 for two weekends, with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday performances.