AUDITIONS for Nightmare at Dolphin Theatre

This ingenious thriller takes place in an isolated house on the edge of a moor near the village of Hanbury in England.  Marion Bishop, an elderly writer of romantic novels, is dying.  Katherine Willis, a kind soul from the nearby village, is looking after her.  When Katherine goes to attend her cousin’s wedding in Scotland, along with her disabled brother, the local doctor arranges for an experienced nurse from London to look after Marion.  A series of mysterious phone calls and the appearance of Raymond, Marion’s estranged nephew, sets off a nightmare situation which becomes increasingly complex, when Katherine’s brother is found murdered.  Deceit, suspicion, blackmail and incrimination are subtly woven into a web of crime, complicated by a dramatic confrontation scene and an exciting climax to a thrilling play.

 The show is set in mid-September, in an English summer.  English accents are required for all cast members.

 Characters:

 Marion Bishop, Aged 71.  A writer of romantic novels, Marion has recently suffered a heart attack and is quite frail.  However in no way has she suffered mentally and is still, in her opinion, a “tough old bird”.

• Katherine Willis, mid 20’s.  Kind, considerate, a bit naïve but sensible for all that.  Hearing of Marion’s plight she has offered to look after her.  A caring soul who looks after her handicapped brother.  Lead role.
• Michael Willis, early 20’s.  Handsome, but an unfortunate accident of birth has left him handicapped, he moves slowly and can make only limited sounds.  A small role but challenging.
• Doris Meachem, 50’s plus.  Runs the local grocery store, a neighbourly busy-body always willing to help out.
• Andrew Thorne, 40’s.  The local doctor – handsome, charming, suave, well-dressed.  Trusted and admired.
• Raymond Shapley, mid 30’s.  Marion’s nephew, on the wrong side of the law, angry that Marion has kept hold of his inheritance until he is “fit” to have it, determined to get hold of it any way he can.  A bit nasty.
• Laura Vinnecombe, mid 30’s.  A nurse, brought in by Andrew to care for Marion while Katherine goes to a wedding; she appears capable and efficient, though rather cold.  She wears a wig to disguise herself for most of the play.  Lead role.

 Rehearsals will be held Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Sunday mid morning.

 Season: Opens 14th November – 5th December 2009

 For more details contact:      Director – Sue Moncrieff-Driscoll

PH: 269-6429 (Pte); 021-497-092 (Mob)

Email: nightmare@dolphintheatre.org.nz