A Murder is Announced
By Agatha Christie, Adapted by Leslie Darbon
Directed by Bernard Teuben
Audition Date: 20th October 2026 – 7.30pm for a 7.45pm Start
Location: The Pavilion Theatre, Doran Drive, Castle Hill (inside the Castle Hill Showground).
The Play
A murder has been announced in the small village of Chipping Cleghorn—at least, that’s what the mysterious notice in the local newspaper claims. As curious residents gather at Little Paddocks to witness the event, the lights go out, a gun is fired, and the real mystery begins. Miss Marple soon arrives to untangle a web of secrets, lies, and hidden identities.
We are seeking a versatile cast capable of sharp comedic timing, crisp character work, and the ability to balance suspense with lightness. All roles require strong ensemble skills.
Roles available
Miss Marple — Female, 60+. Observant, gentle, razor?sharp beneath a polite exterior.
Letitia Blacklock — Female, 50–70. The owner of Little Paddocks; composed, guarded, with hidden depths.
Dora “Bunny” Bunner — Female, 50–70. Letitia’s childhood friend; sweet, fluttery, easily flustered.
Patrick Simmons — Male, 20–35. Charming, witty, with a mischievous streak.
Julia Simmons — Female, 20–35. Intelligent, poised, with a cool, modern confidence.
Mitzi — Female, 20–50. Dramatic, anxious, Eastern European accent; a scene?stealing role.
Inspector Craddock — Male, 30–60. Steady, methodical, dry humour.
Sergeant Mellors — Male, 25–50. Practical, grounded.
Phillipa Haymes — Female, 25–40. Quiet, elegant, carrying emotional weight.
Mrs. Swettenham — Female, 50–70. Social, curious, a village gossip.
Edmund Swettenham — Male, 20–35. Aspiring writer; sardonic, observant.
Rudi Scherz — Male, 20–40. A small but pivotal role.
Audition Requirements
- Prepare a short dramatic monologue (1–2 minutes).
- Cold readings from the script will be provided.
- Accents may be requested for certain roles (RP, Eastern European).
The Run
Rehearsal and Performance Information
Actors must be available for all tech rehearsals and performances.
- Rehearsals start 2nd November 2026. Monday and Thursday evenings, 7.30–10.30pm, with Saturday sessions added closer to first preview.
- Rehearsals will break over Christmas/New Year – Last Rehearsal Dec 19th retuning Jan 4th
- Set building and decorating is a shared effort; everyone is expected to pitch in during bump?in weekends.
- Lines should be off?book by the second week of rehearsals (Miss Marple exempt due to scale).
Previews: 1st and 3rd February
Performances: Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 5th to 27th February 2027.
If you have any questions about the audition process or the production, or to request a script, please contact me on 0419 265 385 or bernard@teuben.com.au
Bernard Teuben Director
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