Audition notice!
The Gradute
Written by Terry Johnson
Directed by Annie Whittaker
19 Jun - 4 Jul 2026
DIRECTOR’S NOTeS
This play is an interesting study in the society of middle class America ofriginally set in the 60s. Morality that we may not think so much about causes quite a drama in the lives of the Braddocks and the Robinsons and I'm so looking forward to directing this classic tale. Most will be fairly familiar with the Dustin Hoffman/Anne Bancroft movie; the play is a little different but the themes and dialogue are essentially the same. If people wish to watch the movie as prep that is up to them but bear in mind I absolutely am not inclined to reproduce the movie and will be directing to my vision. I think a 21st century exploration of this play and the attitudes of the times will be a fascinating journey that I'm really looking forward to start.
Note there are several roles below where actors have one scene but will be doubled up as two or more roles so they're interesting roles for actors who like to diversify their roles. The audition pieces are all for the main characters as the supporting roles are dotted throughout the script (except for the stripper) to keep audition times down. If actors could indicate where they are interested or prefer a smaller role with multiple characters.
This is a play that will challenge the actors through emotional range.
DATE & TIME
Saturday, 21 March 2026
From 10:00 am
Recall Date & Time
Sunday, 22 March 2026
From 10:00 am
LOCATION
Dolphin Theatre
Foyer
12 Spring Street
Onehunga
REHEARSALS
Tuesdays & Thursdays
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sundays
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Audition Now!
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Audition Now! 〰️
Roles
There is a high level of intimacy required between certain characters in this play and will include an intimate scene on stage. Please note that the ages mentioned are indicative only. If you feel you may be suitable for a role, please do audition.
Audition Pieces Below
Audition Pieces Below
Benjamin Braddock
21-25
Benjamin is the archetypal son not wanting to follow the direction his father is pointing him in. He is confused and as with most young men finding his way in the world.
Accent: American
Mrs Robinson
Early 40s
Married to a lawyer and suffering from "suburban neurosis" - from a time when married women weren't allowed to work/have their own bank accounts etc. Her desire for something to liven up her life leads her to proposition Ben.
Accent: American
Mr Robinson
Early 40s
Mrs Robinson's husband and Elaine's father. Loves his family.
Accent: American
Elaine Robinson
21-25
The love of Ben's life - eventually. Educated intelligent young woman faced with a difficult situation.
Accent: American
Mr Braddock
Early 40s
Ben's father. Lawyer happy with his life. Cannot understand Ben's desire for something different for his life
Accent: American
Mrs Braddock
Early 40s
Ben's mother. Loves her husband and son; bewildered by the events overtaking her family
Accent: American
Stripper
Early 20s
Stripper will be suggested by clothing rather than an actual strip on stage. Looking at burlesque currently but will depend on what the actress is comfortable with
Accent: American
Hotel clerk
Any age
Bit snooty hotel clerk
Accent: American
Men general
Over 21
Couple of roles as general men around the strip club
Accent: American
Vicar/priest
Over 30
One scene
Accent: American
Psychiatrist
Over 30
One scene
Accent: American
Audition Pieces
Ben & Mrs Robinson
Ben & Mr Robinson
Ben & Elaine
Ben & Mr Braddock
Stripper
Ben & Mrs Braddock
Ben, Mr & Mrs Braddock
NOTEs
The Dolphin Theatre is a welcoming and nondiscriminatory organisation. We are seeking an incredibly diverse and inclusive cast. We encourage community members to attend regardless of age, race, colour, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and/or experience. If you require accommodations in any way, please let us know and we will do our best to make that happen.
Dolphin theatre is a community theatre and is run entirely by volunteers.
All acting roles are unpaid.