The Ghent Playhouse is pleased to announce open auditions for its next production, adapted from John Steinbeck’s classic 1937 novella, OF MICE AND MEN, to be directed by Brian Sheldon.
The play aims to reflect the lives of middle-class Americans during the Great Depression, by telling the story of two migrant farm workers, George and Lennie who dream of one day owning their own land.
PERFORMANCE DATES
April 9-18, 2027
Friday and Saturday Evenings at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.
Preview Performance Thursday April 8, 2027 at 7:30 p.m.
THE STORY
George and Lennie take a job as ranch hands in hopes of earning enough money to see their dream of owning their own farm come true, but when the ranch boss’s promiscuous wife stirs up trouble, it causes George to worry about his and Lennie’s safety. Realizing that he can no longer keep running away, George is faced with a moral question: How should he deal with Lennie before the ranchers find him and take matters into their own hands?
CHARACTER DESCRIPTIONS
GEORGE MILTON – (Mid 30’s – mid 40’s) – A smart, small, and cynical migrant worker who protects and cares for Lennie. George is quick-witted, protective, and driven by the dream of owning land with Lennie, who he is devoted to. Though good-natured, he has a short temper, particularly when Lennie is threatened. Actor needs to convey intelligence, authority, and emotional depth, balancing his toughness with genuine care and loyalty toward Lennie.
LENNIE SMALL – (Mid 30’s – mid 40’s) – A giant, gentle-hearted man with an intellectual disability who possesses immense physical strength and loves soft things. He is deeply reliant on George for guidance and protection, showing awe, respect, and affection toward him. The actor must convey innocence, kindness, and vulnerability, while also portraying a lack of control over his immense physical strength.
CANDY – (Over 60) – An aging ranch handyman, missing one hand, who offers his savings to be part of George and Lennie’s dream of owning land. Actor must convey deep emotion, vulnerability, warmth and a genuine affection for his dog.
CURLEY – (Mid 20’s – mid 30’s) – Antagonist. The boss’s confrontational, insecure, and jealous son. Short-tempered and aggressive, with a Napoleon Complex, he seeks to assert dominance over those bigger than him and constantly brags about his status. The actor must convey arrogance and explosive volatility, demonstrating the character’s intimidation and aggression.
CURLEY’S WIFE – (Mid 20s – mid 30’s) – The only female, nameless character in the play. She is young, beautiful, and lonely, desperately seeking out male attention to relieve her unbearable life. She is trapped by her circumstances and societal expectations. The actor must project confidence and sensuality, while also conveying vulnerability and emotional depth.
SLIM – (Mid 40’s – mid-late 50’s) – Referred to as the “prince of the ranch,” Slim is strong and well-respected by the other men. He is a highly skilled jerk line skinner who acts as a moral compass and voice of authority on the ranch. Contemplative and observant, he has a deep understanding of the bond between George and Lennie. The actor should convey calm authority, intelligence, and virtue.
CROOKS – (30-50) – An intelligent, yet embittered black stable hand, set apart from the other men by both his race and a debilitating back injury. Years of persistent prejudice have made him guarded and quick to distrust any show of kindness. Despite this, beneath his hardened exterior lies a profound loneliness and desire for connection. The actor should convey intelligence, dignity and emotional depth. Casting Note: This role requires a black actor.
CARLSON – (Mid 30’s – mid-50’s) – A practical, blunt ranch hand who can be bitter and self-centered. Unafraid to speak harsh truths, he proposes the killing of Candy’s dog, reflecting a pragmatic but unsentimental view of the world. The actor should convey toughness, directness, and a no-nonsense attitude.
WHIT – (Mid-20’s – mid-30’s) – A friendly, good-natured young ranch hand who is likeable but easily led. The actor should convey warmth and approachability.
THE BOSS – (Over 50) – The ranch owner and Curley’s father. Stern but fair-minded, he commands respect while occasionally showing generosity to the ranch hands. The actor should convey authority, presence, and a controlled temperament.
AUDITIONERS WILL BE ASKED TO READ SIDES FROM THE SCRIPT.
NOTE: This is an open call for auditioners. ALL roles are available. Actors who are outside the age ranges listed, but feel they can play within those ranges, are strongly encouraged to audition.
THE REHEARSAL SCHEDULE WILL BE BASED UPON THE AVAILABILITY OF THOSE WHO ARE CAST. THEREFORE, AUDITIONERS ARE REQUESTED TO BE AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE IN LISTING ANY AND ALL CONFLICTS ON THEIR AUDITION APPLICATION.
For further information, please visit the Ghent Playhouse website or contact the director, Brian Sheldon by email at brianactorsheldon@gmail.com, noting OF MICE AND MEN AUDITION QUESTION on the SUBJECT line.