THE NANCE
By Douglas Carter Beane
Original Music by Glen Kelly
Directed by Charley Shafor
AUDITIONS
- Sunday, March 29, 2026 – 1pm – 4pm
- Monday, March 30, 2026 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm
- Tuesday, March 31, 2026 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm
First Meeting: April 6, 2026
Rehearsals will be 3-4 times a week beginning in May
You must be CONFLICT FREE: June 13 – June 28, 2026
SYNOPSIS:
A bold, heartfelt comedy/drama set in 1930s New York, where burlesque and politics collide. At its center is Chauncey Miles, a witty performer who plays the flamboyant “Nance” caricature onstage, an outrageous stereotype of a gay man, while secretly living as one in a world that refuses to accept him. As Mayor LaGuardia cracks down on “indecency” in entertainment, Chauncey grapples with the rising tide of censorship, the costs of hiding his true self, and a surprising romance that threatens his carefully constructed facade. A sharp blend of comedy, tragedy, music and showbiz sparkle, The Nance explores identity, repression, and the fight for dignity with unflinching honesty. This play deals with mature themes, gay & political issues and suggestive humor of the era. Recommended for 16+
AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
You must complete an audition form & sign up for an audition time slot cold reading from the script
CHARACTERS
While this is a play with music. Musical abilities is a bonus as there is light singing and movement. The three female burlesque performers will be costumed in “burlesque style” costumes. (no nudity) They are bold, brash and unapologetic. They all have been around the block and then some. This is an historic piece and deals with burlesque style humor, there is no room for being offended by jokes and dialogue that may be considered inappropriate by today’s standards. When it comes to singing the males are baritones and there are 2 mezzo-sopranos and one alto. Do not let your fear of singing keep you from auditioning.
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 male intimacy.
NED:
Should appear to be in his 20’s. 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 the illusion of being nude. Must be comfortable with male intimacy.
EPHRAIM:
Should appear to be in his 50’s. Straight, homophobic, a little gruff and is the lead comedian and theatre manager.
SYLVIE:
Should appear to be in her mid 20’s to early 30’s. A burlesque dancer and member of the communist party. Not afraid to argue politics.
JOAN:
Should appear to be in her 20’s. Somewhat innocent, perky and vivacious.
CARMEN:
Should appear to be in her mid 20’s to early 30’s. On stage she specializes in playing with an exaggerated Latin-American accent.
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
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 