AUDITIONS
AUDITIONS for THE NANCE!
In the 1930s, burlesque impresarios welcomed the hilarious comics and musical parodies of vaudeville to their decidedly lowbrow niche. A headliner called “the nance” —usually played by a straight man—was a stereotypically camp homosexual and master of comic double entendre. THE NANCE recreates the naughty, raucous world of burlesque’s heyday and tells the backstage story of Chauncey Miles and his fellow performers. At a time when it was easy to play gay and dangerous to be gay, Chauncey’s uproarious antics on the stage stand out in marked contrast to his offstage life.
Written by Douglas Carter Beane
Directed by Dennis Beasley
Musical Direction by Amy Dahlstrom
Choreographed by Gianna Landin
REHEARSALS BEGIN:
Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
(Time will be taken off for the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years holidays)
SHOW DATES:
January 15-February 1, 2026
Please come prepared to sing one of the provided audition songs and perform one of the audition monologues.
Please sign up for a time slot using the link below!
CHARACTER DESCIPTIONS
Chauncey Miles:
Should appear to be in his mid 40’s. He is a closeted gay comic who plays a “nance” on-stage. Witty, quick humored, sarcastic and a little bitter about life. On stage he is over-the-top. This will be a challenging but albeit rewarding role for even the most seasoned performer. The actor must be comfortable with intimacy. Baritone
NED:
Significantly younger and more inexperienced than Chauncey. Good-looking, fit and a little innocent. He was once married but now shares in a secret relationship with Chauncey. He later becomes a stage performer. Role will require nudity. Must be comfortable with intimacy. Auditioners going out for Ned do not need to do the singing portion of the audition.
EPHRAIM:
50+. He is gruff and the lead comedian and theatre manager. Baritone
SYLVIE:
A burlesque dancer and member of the communist party. Not afraid to argue politics. Mezzo-soprano
JOAN:
A burlesque dancer. Somewhat innocent, perky, and vivacious. Mezzo-soprano
CARMEN:
A burlesque dancer. On stage she specializes in playing with an exaggerated Latin-American accent. Mezzo-soprano
There are two additional roles; one female and one male. These are non-singing roles who may play a variety of characters both verbal and non-verbal. Both should range in age from 30’s to 50’s
AUDITION MATERIAL
Audition Monologues
Nance Initial Audition Sides
Audition Songs
I’m Sentimental – Female Audition Song
Everybody’s Looking For Love – Male Audition Song
*Those auditioning for Ned do not need to sing at the auditiion