OPEN AUDITIONS: Miss Holmes

Miss Holmes

By Christopher M. Walsh

Based on characters by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Directed by Melissa Gutiérrez

Open Auditions: July 6-7 at 6:30 PM

Callbacks: July 8 at 6:30 PM

Rehearsal Timeframe: July 13-September 24, Monday-Thursday 7-9 PM (with the likely possibility of starting earlier and/or running later as we get closer to performances)

Load-in/take stage: Sunday, August 30

Evening Performances (7:30pm): September 25, 26, October 2, 3

Matinee Performances (2:30pm): September 27, October 4

Content Label: PG-13; Discussions of death. Staged attempted suicide with prop knife. A prop gun is wielded and fired. Violence. Depictions of blood, drinking/a drunk person, and of somebody forcibly administering sedative drugs.

The Majestic Theatre (a division of the City of Corvallis Parks and Recreation department) is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and to creating a welcoming place for actors of all backgrounds to explore their craft. We are particularly eager to work with artists of color and other artists from marginalized communities. All auditions are free and open to the public. This audition is for an amateur, volunteer production. The Majestic Theatre staff and volunteers do not discriminate on the basis of age, national origin, race, gender, ethnic background, ability, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or any protected class.

Auditions will be held in person at the Majestic Theatre.

If you'd like to learn more about the director's vision and experience the script prior to auditions, there will be an open table read of the play on Sunday, June 14th at 1 PM in the Lab space on the second floor of the theatre. Anyone is welcome to come and read or listen!

SHOW SYNOPSIS

When an anonymous note sends a newlywed wife looking for help, Miss Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Dorothy Watson work together to uncover the secrets surrounding a corrupt police inspector whose wives have a habit of turning up dead. But this Holmes and Watson face far greater challenges than bringing the cunning criminal to justice. Miss Holmes possesses one of the greatest deductive minds of her generation, but she chafes at the restraints imposed upon her by society and family. Dr. Watson struggles to make a difference at the only hospital in London that will hire female doctors. In a time and place where gender roles are rigidly defined, these unconventional women dare to challenge societal norms by providing an unusual, but necessary, service. Inspired by the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this theatrical fan fiction shines a new light on favorite characters from the canon, re-examining the Victorian world of Holmes and Watson by exploring the added obstacles faced by these two iconic characters if they were women.

FROM THE DIRECTOR, Melissa Gutiérrez

There have been many brilliant adaptations to showcase different sides of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusty partner Dr. John Watson, from ‘90s classic PBS Wishbone to BBC Sherlock. They’re just one of the many portrayals (canine and human) of the intrepid duo throughout the last several decades… But what if Holmes and Watson were women instead? What additional challenges might they face in a world where the rights of women are even more limited compared to modern day? The play Miss Holmes begins to explore this question with drama, mystery, quick wit, and some fist fights. 

I’m looking for a cast of 10-15 talented actors to embark on a gritty, grungy journey through Victorian London. 

PREPARATION NOTES

• You do NOT need to prepare a monologue or piece.

• Movement will be a part of auditions; please wear comfortable clothes to audition and be prepared to move to the best of your ability.

• Sides will be provided at auditions. 

  • You may pick up a copy of the open audition sides at The Majestic Theatre starting June 22nd. You can also email majesticmissholmes@gmail.com to request a digital copy of the sides on that same date.

• Auditioners are encouraged to read sides in a British accent. Those reading for Watson and Stamford may also be asked to read certain sides in a German accent.

  • Please try your best and have fun! Rest assured that we have British and German dialect coaches to help us during the rehearsal process. 

CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS

All characters do not have a specific race or ethnic background. We are excited to see a diverse pool of actors audition for all roles. Ages listed are the approximate ages of the characters themselves. We invite actors of 18 years or older to audition for any role.

Important Note: Actors may play more than one character (with the exception of the two actors playing Sherlock and Watson). If able, actors may be asked to move or pick up set pieces throughout the show, as well as climb stairs.

Miss Sherlock Holmes

Character Age: 20s-40s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: HEAVY! 419 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: On stage for most of the play. Some active movement, such as chasing and climbing stairs. Hand holding with Dr. Dorothy Watson, Watson’s around her shoulder, hugged by Mrs. Hudson. Some fight choreography with the Orderlies, Edwin Greener, Mycroft, and Superintendent in several different scenes.

Character Description: A most peculiar and fearless woman. She sees, smells, and deduces. Will not be restrained by a straitjacket or societal norms. Isn’t afraid to take risks or get into a physical fight (sometimes recklessly so). Helps women through a network of information and gossip. Speaks in a British accent. 

Dr. Dorothy Watson

Character Age: 20s-40s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: HEAVY! 357 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: On stage for most of the play. Hand holding with Michael Stamford and Sherlock Holmes, places an arm around Sherlock’s shoulder. This role requires wielding and firing a prop gun. Some active movement, such as chasing and climbing stairs. 

Character Description: One of the first female doctors. She is frustrated by the limitations and expectations set upon women. Wants to make a difference. Becomes friends with Sherlock, as well as Sherlock’s voice of reason. Level-headed, practical, and brave. Speaks in a British accent. The actor playing Dr. Watson will need to learn some lines in German, as well as speak in a German accent for one scene. 

Lizzie Chapman

Character Age: 20s-40s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: Medium. 93 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Some fight choreography: lunging at Sherlock Holmes, is restrained by Lestrade. Possible kiss on the cheek to/from Thomas Chapman. 

Character Description: The young wife of Thomas Chapman. Seeks help when she continues to receive letters from an anonymous sender regarding her husband, who she both admires and fears. Speaks in a British accent.

Geoffrey Lestrade

Character Age: 30s-50s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Medium. 92 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Some fight choreography with the Superintendent, restrains Lizzie Chapman.

Character Description: A Scotland Yard detective, the “best of the professionals" according to Sherlock. Questions Thomas Chapman’s innocence and, as a result, butts heads with him. Speaks in a British accent.

Mycroft Holmes

Character Age: 30s-50s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Medium. 87 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Some fight choreography: restrains Sherlock Holmes. 

Character Description: Sherlock’s older brother. Well-connected and influential. He’s a  government official with little patience for Sherlock’s antics. Speaks in a British accent.

Michael Stamford

Character Age: 20s-40s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Medium. 74 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Holds Dr. Watson’s hand and proposes to her on one knee.

Character Description: A doctor and admirer of Watson. He is confused by Watson’s resistance to his proposals (yes, more than one); who wouldn’t want to be a wife and leave their career to run the house? Speaks in a British accent. The actor playing Michael Stamford will need to learn some lines in German, as well as speak in a German accent for one scene.

Thomas Chapman

Character Age: 30s-50s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Medium. 66 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Possible kiss on the cheek to/from Lizzie Chapman. 

Character Description: A high profile Scotland Yard detective. The husband of Lizzie Chapman. His two previous wives tragically, suspiciously died. Has a big ego and a reputation to match. Speaks in a British accent.

Dr. Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

Character Age: 40s-60s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 31 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Does not require fight or intimacy choreography. 

Character Description: A historical figure; the first woman to qualify as a doctor in England. She acts as Watson’s mentor and supervisor. Quick-witted and encouraging. Speaks in a British accent. 

Eudora Featherstone

Character Age: 60+

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 31 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Receives an intimidating kiss on the cheek from Thomas Chapman. Does not require fight choreography. 

Character Description: An elderly, grieving mother. Wealthy. Her late daughter was married to Thomas Chapman before she suddenly and suspiciously passed away. Speaks in a posh British accent. 

Edwin Greener

Character Age: 30s-50s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 33 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Some fight choreography with Sherlock Holmes. Some active movement, such as running. This role requires wielding a prop knife and simulating attempted suicide with it. 

Character Description: An army veteran and petty criminal. He works for Thomas Chapman in an “unofficial” capacity. Speaks in a British Cockney accent.

Mrs. Hudson

Character Age: 60+

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Female, is referred to using she/her pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Female-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 20 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Might put an arm around Lizzie Chapman to comfort her. Hugs Sherlock Holmes. Does not require fight choreography. 

Character Description: Sherlock’s disapproving landlady. She worries and cares a lot about Sherlock and others. Speaks in a British accent. 

Superintendent

Character Age: 30s-50s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 27 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Some fight choreography with Sherlock Holmes and Lestrade. 

Character Description: Superintendent at the infamous Bethlem Royal Hospital, a historical psychiatric hospital. Speaks in a British accent. 

Reginald

Character Age: 20s-40s

Character Race/Ethnicity: Any

Character Gender: Male, is referred to using he/him pronouns

Desired Actor Gender: Male-presenting

Line Burden: Light-medium. 20 lines.

Ability/movement/intimacy: Does not require fight or intimacy choreography. Requires simulated drunk speech and movement. 

Character Description: Eudora’s nephew. He stands to inherit a lot of Eudora’s money, and is terrified that she’ll change her will. Speaks in a posh British accent. 

ENSEMBLE & SUPPORTING ROLES 

The below roles may be played by actors playing other roles:

Peggy: Female-presenting. 20s-40s. Eudora’s maid. Does not require fight or intimacy choreography. Light line load. 12 lines. Speaks in a British, working-class accent.

Martha: Female-presenting. 20s-40s. A washerwoman who’s part of a network for gossip and information. Does not require fight or intimacy choreography. Light line load. 4 lines. Speaks in a British Cockney accent.

Orderlies: One male-presenting, two of any gender. Some fight choreography with Sherlock Holmes. Light line load. 1-4 lines each. Speaks in a British Cockney accent.

Vagrant: Bumps into Thomas Chapman. No lines.