Open audition notice for BETWEEN RIVERSIDE AND CRAZY by Stephen Adly Guirgis
Auditions will be held Mon & Tue, March 31 & April 1, 2025, starting at 7:00 pm both nights.
Production dates: May 23-June 8, 2025
The Dayton Theatre Guild at the Caryl D. Philip TheatreScape
430 Wayne Ave, Dayton OH, 45410
937-278-5993 — www.daytontheatreguild.org
Directed by Robert Wayne Waldron
Produced by Christina Tomazinas-McQuinn & Rick Flynn
Stephen Adly Guirgis’ BETWEEN RIVERSIDE AND CRAZY delivers a raw, darkly comedic look at urban life through the lens of Walter “Pops” Washington and his son, Junior. Set in a rent-stabilized New York City apartment, the play explores themes of family, redemption, and the struggle to navigate a complex world.
Pops, a former cop battling the NYPD in a lawsuit, clings to his home as a sanctuary, while Junior, recently paroled, seeks a fresh start. Their lives intertwine with eccentric houseguests, revealing past traumas and present-day challenges. The play masterfully blends humor with poignant drama, exposing the characters’ flaws and vulnerabilities.
Casting Requirements:
- Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script.
- A résumé and headshot are not required but are appreciated.
- Please provide a list of all known conflicts between Apr 2 & June 8, 2025
Roles Available:
- Walter “Pops” Washington:
50-60’s A retired black NYPD officer who is central to the story. He’s a complex character, filled with anger, wit, and vulnerability, as he struggles with his past, his identity, and his ongoing legal battle with the police department. - Junior:
20-30’s Pops’ son, who has recently moved back in with him. He’s trying to turn his life around but is also tangled in questionable activities and relationships. - Oswaldo:
20-30’s A recovering addict and one of Junior’s friends. He’s staying with Pops and has moments of both humor and poignancy as he works on his sobriety. - Lulu:
20-30’s Junior’s girlfriend, who is cheerful but perhaps a bit naïve. She often provides comic relief while also revealing deeper emotional layers. - Church Lady:
30-40’s An enigmatic and spiritual figure who visits Pops. Her presence in the play adds an unexpected and surreal twist. - Lieutenant Caro:
40-50’s A current NYPD officer and friend of Pops. He brings tension into the story as he tries to navigate loyalty and duty. - Detective O’Connor:
40-50’s, is Pops’ former partner on the NYPD. She is a layered character, torn between her personal loyalty to Pops and her professional responsibilities.
For more information, please contact Rick Flynn at RickF413@gmail.com
