Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Auditions for a stage adaptation of the colonial-era comedy “The Candidates; or, The Humours of a Virginia Election” will be held March 8 at 1 p.m. at the Salem Museum.
Performances are scheduled for April 17-18, with showtimes to be announced on the museum’s website and social media pages.
Written by colonial Virginia figure Robert Munford and set in the early 1770s on the eve of the American Revolution, “The Candidates” follows the misadventures of Mr. Wou’dbe, a candidate for the Virginia House of Burgesses. The character competes against rivals Sir John Toddy, Mr. Strutabout and Mr. Smallhopes in a satire of colonial campaigning culture. The play depicts Wou’dbe’s efforts to win support through political barbecues and candidate breakfasts while attempting to demonstrate the virtues of Virginia voters.
The production follows a staged reading held Feb. 21 at the museum. A full stage adaptation was approved after the reading and will be directed by museum volunteer and actor Steve Aaron. Organizers said the production is believed to be the first full-scale performance of the play in the Roanoke Valley. The play went unperformed for nearly two centuries before being rediscovered by scholars in the 20th century.
Casting will include 14 male roles, four female roles and a mixed ensemble of background characters. Prior acting experience is helpful but not required, though participants should be prepared to perform the play’s colonial-era language. Walk-in auditions will be accepted.
Organizers said participation is encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds, and character ages are flexible. All roles are open to actors of any ethnicity.
For more information, call 540-389-6760 or email info@SalemMuseum.org.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located in the historic Williams-Brown House at 801 E. Main St. Admission and parking are free, and donations are accepted.
