We’re Seeking Artists Eager to Assist in Shaping Tuskegee, a New Play Presented by ROŪGE: Theater Reinvented

Presented by ROŪGE: Theater Reinvented
Written & In Development by Sherilynn Cherry
Directed by Sharon Cook

Wednesday, June 3rd starting at 6:30pm at The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd

About the Project

Tuskegee is a new play with music in development, created in collaboration with local playwright Sherilynn Cherry and led by director Sharon Cook with music by Andre Love. This workshop reading will support the continued development of the script, music, characters, and performance language, with participating artists helping shape the work before its planned full production at the Military Aviation Museum later this year.

The culmination of your work in this reading and development process will shape the final production which will be staged at The Military Aviation Museum out in Virginia Beach later this very year.

Rehearsals:

  • Monday, June 22 - Friday, June 26 | 6-10pm

  • Sunday, June 27 | 1 - 6pm

Performance:

  • Sunday, June 28 | 3pm

Performance Location: Military Aviation Museum (1341 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach VA)

Roles & Responsibilities

As a performer in the Tuskegee Reading, you will:

  • Rehearse in a collaborative environment focused on cultivating an evolving work

  • Perform in lightly-staged or choreographed reading of the resulting work

  • Collaborate with the creative team to shape a shared, intimate performance environment

  • Participate in rehearsals, tech, and performances as scheduled

  • Uphold ROŪGE’s values of care, consent, clarity, and respect throughout the process

Clear boundaries are central to this work. Any concerns about content or expectations of the reading will be discussed and agreed upon before acceptance of a role.

Roles available:

This is not a complete list, roles and cast for the show is still in development and all individuals who audition will be considered across upcoming roles.

Character Breakdown:

  • Junior [Sides Here]

    • Type: The Visionary. He is an African American man in his early 20s, articulate, confident, and serves as the primary narrator.

  • Ace [Sides Here]

    • Type: The Storyteller. He is playful, charismatic, and leads the group in banter and singing. As the White Officer, he must pivot to be stern and antagonistic.

  • Jaybird [Sides Here]

    • Type: The Soul. A lively pilot who sings lead. As Mama or Granny, this actor provides the maternal heart and comedic timing of the domestic scenes.

  • Wood  [Sides Here]

    • Type: The Support. Quick-witted, observant, and versatile. As the second White Officer, he helps depict the "Operation Washout" sequence.

This production centers the Tuskegee Airmen and Black American history. Some roles are race-specific, and casting will honor the cultural and historical communities represented. Performers of all genders, abilities, and backgrounds are encouraged to audition.

Performers must be 18 years of age or older.

About You

You are someone who:

  • Is curious about physical storytelling and non-traditional performance formats

  • Feels comfortable working in intimate, audience-facing environments

  • Values collaboration, communication, and care in artistic processes

  • Is interested in process-driven work and collective creation

  • Is open, grounded, and present in your body and performance

Additionally, We’re looking for someone with most of the following

  • Experience with movement-based, immersive, or site-specific performance (formal training not required)

  • Ability to hold presence and intention in close proximity to audiences

  • Reliability, clear communication, and respect for ensemble and community process

  • Interest in projects that prioritize consent, safety, and mutual care

  • For some roles, experience in dance, choreography, or other embodied movement practices

What We Offer

  • A collaborative, human-centered creative process

  • Clear communication around expectations, boundaries, and logistics

  • A chance to work in a nationally recognized historic site

  • A project that values intention, presence, and artistry over spectacle

Compensation & Benefits

  • Compensation: $400.00 stipend

  • Documentation of work (photos and/or video, as available)

  • Participation in a collaborative, care-centered creative process

Audition Process

Our audition process is designed to be respectful of artists’ time and accessible to a wide range of performers. We aim to keep the day organized, efficient, and welcoming, with clear communication throughout.

  • Submission Type: In-Person Auditions (Sign-Ups encouraged, but not required)

  • Date of Auditions: Wednesday, June 3 beginning at 6:30p

  • Location of Auditions: Church of the Good Shepard 7400 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23505

    • Park in the lot near the side entrance with an awning. There will be staff at the entrance to let you in.

  • Sign-Up Process: Performers are encouraged to sign-up via our Google Form Linked HERE and below. Appointments are encouraged, but not required, all walk-ups will be welcome.

  • Audition Format: Performers will be asked to prepare 4 - 8 bars of music, along with a side for the role(s) the actor would like to be considered for. Sides are linked above for their respective roles, and linked in a packet HERE.You may bring accompanying music on your phone, computer, or mobile device. A speaker with plug-in capabilities for lighting, USB-C, and Aux cables will be provided.

  • Final Selection: Casting decisions will be communicated directly to all callback participants.

For any questions about your submission, please email Connor Norton (Connor@rougeva.org)

Audition Submission/Request Form