Audition notice!
Magpie’s Call
Written by Sheree Veysey
Directed by Penel Keagan
Sunday 26 July from 10am
DIRECTOR’S NOTeS
This production explores a simple but compelling question: what if Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson were women?
While the story remains grounded in the world and spirit of the original work, this interpretation invites us to consider how differently these characters might navigate that world — the expectations placed upon them, the spaces they are permitted to occupy, and the ways in which they are seen and heard.
I want this play to be an exploration of life in another time. Each generation lives within the biases and perceived roles placed upon them by society and family, and this story is no different. It asks us to consider how these characters, and indeed how we ourselves, might live if we had been born into the world of the 1880s.
At its heart, this is still the Sherlock Holmes we know and love: a story of intellect, observation, partnership, and mystery. The intention is not to reinvent the narrative, but to reveal new dimensions within it.
Culture is incredibly important to me, both within the story and in the way we build a company. We will work in an environment where each person is valued, and where everyone is expected to treat one another with dignity, understanding, and respect.
As a director, my focus is always on people. I aim to create a collaborative, supportive space where actors feel confident to explore, take risks, and bring their full selves to the work. I am excited to work with a company who are curious, committed, and eager to contribute to a shared creative vision.
DATE & TIME
Sunday, 26 July 2026
10:00am – 4:30pm
Callbacks (if required):
Tuesday 28 July – evening
LOCATION
Dolphin Theatre
Rehearsal Hall
12 Spring Street
Onehunga
REHEARSALS
Tuesdays & Thursdays
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sundays
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
APPLY TO AUDITION HERE!
Audition Now!
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Audition Now! 〰️
Roles
This production includes moments of physical conflict and brief intimacy. All scenes involving intimacy and physical contact will be supported by professional advisors to ensure a safe and respectful working environment.
Please note that the ages listed for each character are a guide only. Casting decisions will be based on the overall balance of the company and how actors connect within the world of the play.
Set in Brisbane, Australia during October 1918, The Magpie's Call is a moving family drama set in the final weeks of the First World War. Against a backdrop of loss, hope, and social change, the story follows sixteen-year-old Daisy Harvey as she navigates grief, first love, family secrets, and the uncertain future that awaits a generation shaped by war.
The production explores themes of family, resilience, forgiveness, and the lasting impact of conflict. While the play contains moments of humour and warmth, performers should be prepared to engage with emotionally rich material.
Full script and audition pieces will be provided upon submission of an audition application.
Full script and audition pieces upon application submission
Full script and audition pieces upon application submission
Evan (Late 30’s)
Australian
Identical twin brother to Jack, Bea’s husband who is away fighting. Evan couldn’t go to the front due to his failing eyesight. He is close to Daisy and acts as a buffer between her and her mother.
Bea (Late 30’s)
Australian
Bea has the weight of the world on her shoulders. She is struggling to keep the family bakery business afloat while her husband is away fighting. Daisy is a constant source of worry and irritation and Bea is trying to protect her and keep her focussed.
Daisy (15–18)
Australian
Daisy is a passionate and strong-willed 16 year old who longs for her young life to have more meaning. She has a fractious relationship with her mother whom she feels she can never please. Loves her Uncle Evan and is very close to him
Jack (20–24)
New Zealand
Jack is a 24 year old NZ soldier who has been invalided out of the war due to losing an eye. He has what we would now call PTSD from his time at the front and gets startled by sudden and loud noises. He is sweet on Daisy, which proves difficult as Bea is very protective of her.
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.