Description:

Stage Left Theatre, one of Chicago's oldest ensemble-driven theatre companies, is auditioning understudies for their spring show, IN THE BACK/ON THE FLOOR by Chicago-native Ken Green. Directed by ensemble member Rachel Van.

DESCRIPTION:
"In The Back/On The Floor" examines the issue of minimum wage work through the eyes of workers at a chain retail store. Though paid the least, these workers are asked to bear the heaviest burden for the good of profit. They are often seen as easily replaceable parts, but also expected to believe they are members of a "family." When one worker with ambition sees his dreams of advancement within the organization stunted, the situation raises the forbidden word - "union."

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:

LARRY: African American, early 40s, freelance writer but working at the store to make a few extra bucks and have something to do. Doesn't really need to work there but does anyway to have something to do.

CARLOS: Mexican, early 30s, member of the Stock Team. Laid back and sarcastic, a joker. Complains about his family but works hard trying to provide for them. Works several jobs in addition to the one at Home Base.

JOSE: Mexican, early 20s, member of the Stock Team. Young and hopeful, actually believes his hard work and focus will impress the higher ups and lead to a promotion. Has dreams of becoming management.

WANDA: Latinx/Dominican, late 30s. Stock team member. In addition to regular work, takes on tasks that she doesn't have to do: makes coffee for everyone in the morning, cleans up a little in the break room, etc. She is much appreciated by all the workers, but all this means nothing to management.

WALLY: White, mid 60s, member of the Stock Team. World-weary but upbeat. Retired accountant but had to take a new job when his wife became ill and the bills began piling up.

FOLEY: White, early 20s. Doesn't really need the job and not invested in it at all. Does just as much as work as is necessary to keep it, maybe even slightly less when the bosses aren't watching. Yet, somehow, the managers think he's a hard worker.

DONNA: White, assistant manager, early 30s. Directs the Stock Team. Feels a duty to the job yet wonders when it will pay off, if ever. Has been assistant manager for four years with no signs of moving up. Management is on her back, so she stays on the Stock Team's back

ALLEN: South Asian, Home Base manager, mid 30s. Rarely seen and rarely interacts with regular Stock Team, except on walk-throughs to check up on Donna. When he does, he acts as if he knows everyone intimately. He doesn't.

JULIE and PAUL: The Latinx and South Asian (respectively) hosts of the Home Base training video. They are seen at various points of the play. They are extremely chipper, professional and plastic.

Pay: $150 stipend

Rehearsals and performances will be at Chicago Dramatists- 1105 W Chicago

Actors of all ethnicities, gender expressions, backgrounds, and abilities are encouraged to audition. Stage Left is committed to equality and diversity in the theater.