Open Auditions for An Ideal Husband, by Oscar Wilde

*From the organisers (correct at the time of publishing), please see the organiser’s website for the latest details.

Auditions are on Monday 9th September at 7.30pm, Sunday 15th September at 2.30pm and Monday 16th September at 7.30pm in the theatre lounge. Playing dates are 13th-18th January 2025. Rehearsals start on 14th October 2024.

Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece about corruption and integrity in public office has as much resonance today as it did in 1895. Robert Chiltern, the man who has everything, is set for a glittering career, a possible future Prime Minister, but it could all come crashing down around his ears as his dark secret is about to be exposed. Can he be saved? Is he worth saving?

The roles below are brief descriptions of the characters. The age guides are ‘rough ballpark’ figures, allowing for flexibility where needed.

Large Roles

Viscount Lord Goring: A man of impeccable dress and inimitable wit and intelligence, a dandy with a love of frivolous material things over more serious matters: until it really matters. 30-35
Mrs Cheveley: Beguiling, fascinating & deviously clever. A woman of dubious character, shrouded in mystery. She was at school with Lady Chiltern though more senior. 30-35
Sir Robert Chiltern: An admired and respected politician and dynamic Government Minister, considered honest & incorruptible but with a secret that may destroy his life. 40-45
Lady Gertrude Chiltern: A strong woman of progressive views and high morals whose expectation of her husband is built on her own ideals. She well remembers Mrs Cheveley from school. 27-33

Medium Roles

The Earl of Caversham K.G.: Lord Goring’s father, an establishment figure who pours scorn on his son’s lifestyle and urges him to take the more serious paths of marriage and career. 55+
Mabel Chiltern: Robert Chiltern’s sister. A delightful, effervescent, witty but frivolous young woman who has her eye set on Lord Goring. 20-25
Lady Markby: A pleasant and popular lady, conservative in outlook, representing traditional Victorian values, who accompanies Mrs Cheveley. 55+

Smaller and Brief Walk on Roles

The Countess of Basildon & Mrs Marchmount: Two women of delicate charm who indulge themselves in frivolous banter on various topics. (Should be of similar ages to each other).
Phipps: Butler to Lord Goring, the ‘Ideal Butler’ in both manner and efficiency. 40+
Viscount du Nanjec: A young attaché from the French Embassy, a flamboyant individual who is an ardent Anglophile. 20-30
Mason: The Chiltern’s Butler, a formal servant who knows his place. 50+

Mr Montford: A well-groomed but socially awkward secretary to Robert Chiltern. 25-35
James: The Chiltern’s Footman. Any age
Harold: Lord Goring’s Footman. Any age

If any of this sounds fun, please contact the Director, Chris Raymakers on 0781 3290559 or e-mail bellatrix1@tiscali.co.uk for more information: or simply turn up at any of the auditions. Scripts, once available, can be borrowed for a few days from either the director; or the theatre office Mon.-Sat. 9.30-12.30.

Everyone is Welcome. The auditions are open to anyone, but if you get involved in this production in any capacity you will be asked to join the Market Harborough Drama Society.