Nonsense Productions is seeking non-equity actors for an Original Practices production of Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" in March of 2026!

Original Practices is a technique in which historical performance practice is used to inform and shape modern theatre execution. For our production, that means pulling several conditions and truths from Shakespeare's time and implementing them in our production process. These include (but are not limited to) an expedited rehearsal process of one week, an emphasis on direct address and audience interaction, usage of cue scripts by actors, and a collaborative staging process without the role of a true modern director. Instead, an actor-manager will guide rehearsals, but performers will be largely responsible for creating the final stage product. Due to the nature of this production, we are specifically seeking actors with experience and confidence working with Shakespeare or classical text, an affinity for teamwork, and a desire to play!

Note about casting: We highly encourage actors of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, body types, abilities, ages, and backgrounds to audition. Please do not feel limited by traditional character portrayals or demographics as you are preparing for auditions.

Pay rate: $50 stipend*
Self-tape submissions due: January 9, 2026 (5pm)
In-person auditions: January 12, 2026 (6pm-10pm)
In-person callbacks: January 15, 2026 (4pm-10pm)
Rehearsals: March 13-19, 2026
Performances: March 20-22, 2026

Auditions, callbacks, and rehearsals will be held at the GreatWorks rehearsal space in Ravenswood. Performances will be held at the Cornservatory in Lincoln Square.

Characters in the Show:
Viola: Young woman of Messaline, twin sister of Sebastian. In disguise as a young page, Cesario, for a lot of the show. Brave, independent, witty, confident.

Olivia: Countess in Illyria, in mourning for her brother. Smart, influential, suave.

Maria (doubles as Priest): Servant in Olivia's household. Clever, influential.

Sir Toby Belch: Olivia's Uncle, contributor to many shenanigans. Jolly, mischievous, loud. Sings a bit.

Sir Andrew Aguecheek: Friend (or more?) of Toby, guest in Olivia's household. Vain, na?ve, ostentatious.

Malvolio: Steward of Olivia's household, the recipient of many shenanigans. Contrarian, proud, pompous.

Feste: *This role has been cast.* Fool in the household of Olivia (and sometimes Orsino). Incredibly sharp, eloquent, thoughtful, witty. Plays guitar and sings.

Orsino: Duke of Illyria, fairly well-loved leader. Romantic, melancholy, trustworthy.

Sebastian (doubles as Valentine): Young man of Messaline, twin brother of Viola. Along for the ride.

Antonio (doubles as Captain): Sea captain, rescuer of and companion to Sebastian. Fiercely loyal, determined, passionate.