Who: Seeking persons (over 18) of ANY ethnicity, gender and body type to play all roles including Edmonia and Samuel Lewis. We are looking for a wide variety of folks to be a part of this endeavor!
No prior experience in theatre or film is required!
This production expands the horizons of theater. It is a fresh idea with intriguing possibilities! We need bold, curious, adventurous, and open-minded individuals to be part of this experiment. Let's make history together!
Character Breakdown:
SAMUEL LEWIS: A master magician, magnetic circus performer and singer who was the first black settler in Bozeman, Montana. Charismatic and endlessly resourceful - a dreamer who turns risk into opportunity. A free man of Ojibwe Indian and Barbadian descent. He opened the first barbershop and bath house in Bozeman and was beloved by the community.
EDMONIA LEWIS: The first sculptor of Mississauga Ojibwe Indian and Barbadian descent to achieve international recognition in 1860's. Has a thriving art studio in Rome and makes sculptures from marble and bronze. She is confident, independent and strong-willed, possessing a quiet power.
ISABELLA: Edmonia’s devoted young muse and lover. She is warm, perceptive yet naive. She offers unwavering encouragement and strength, standing beside Edmonia through tough challenges and proudly accompanying her to the premiere of The Death of Cleopatra.
LIZZIE WILLIAMS: A former nurse who is now an independent restaurant and hotel owner. She is living with an unknown illness and dying slowly, but she has a sense of humor. A dear friend of Samuel Lewis. She sends half of her wealth to help Edmonia create The Death of Cleopatra.
WEARY TRAVELER: A smug, condescending barbershop regular, who belittles Samuel while insisting on his services. He is fully aware no one in town can match the precision of Samuel’s skilled hands.
JUDGE: A serious judge who oversees Edmonia’s “attempted murder” case. They begin strict and unwavering, but eventually dismisses the case due to a lack of evidence.
PROSECUTOR: A hard-nosed attorney who is questioning Edmonia’s testimony in court. Theatrical, bigger than life but, can also be quietly intense.
JOHN MERCER CUNNINGHAM: Composed and self confident lawyer who grew up in the church. Sent by the NAACP to defend young Edmonia on trial. He is aware of the high stakes and high visibility of this trial.