THEATRE JACKSONVILLE

THEATRE JACKSONVILLE

*OPEN Audition Notice*

Driving Miss Daisy

By Alfred Uhry

 

Directed by Lindsay Curry

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Performance dates: September 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 2024

Audition Date:           Monday, June 17, 2024

Time:                            6:00 pm

Place:                           Theatre Jacksonville

                                       2032 San Marco Blvd.

                                       Jacksonville, FL 32207

 

Auditions will be cold readings from the script.

 

About the Show:

When the elderly Miss Daisy has an accident that prevents her from driving, her son hires Hoke Colburn, an African-American, to drive her. What starts out as a contentious feud, blooms into a 30-year friendship. Set against the backdrop of racial tensions in the south, this Pulitzer Prize-winning tale of the unlikely relationship between an aging, fiercely independent white Southern Jewish lady and a proud, soft-spoken black man is both humorous and heart-warming.

Principal Roles:

2 Men

1 Woman

 

Daisy Werthan, White, (60’s - early 70s):  Daisy Werthan is a spirited and independent seventy-two-year-old widow who values her autonomy. Reluctant to accept a driver, Hoke, hired by her son after a car accident, Daisy initially resents the intrusion on her independence. As their relationship evolves over twenty-five years, Daisy's tough exterior softens, leading to a deep bond with Hoke that challenges her prejudices and offers unexpected companionship. Hoke's mild manner eventually wins her over. Despite the passage of time and changes in her circumstances, Daisy's steadfast determination and strong sense of self remain unaltered, making her a resilient and memorable character.

 

Boolie Werthan, White, 40s -50s: Boolie Werthan is Daisy's well-meaning and pragmatic son who hires a driver, Hoke, for his mother after she has a car accident. As a successful businessman, Boolie is responsible and caring, looking out for Daisy's well-being and safety. Initially met with resistance from his independent mother, Boolie strives to ensure her needs are met, even if it means challenging her stubbornness. Through his efforts to care for Daisy and manage her changing circumstances, Boolie demonstrates a mix of patience, determination, and a genuine concern for his mother's welfare.

 

Hoke Colburn, African - American, 50s – 70s: Hoke Colburn is a kind-hearted and patient African American man who becomes Daisy Werthan's driver at the insistence of her son, Boolie. With a gentle demeanor and unwavering dedication, Hoke navigates the complexities of Daisy's strong-willed personality and prejudices, ultimately forming a deep and lasting bond with her over the course of twenty-five years. Through his compassion and understanding, Hoke not only serves as Daisy's chauffeur but also becomes a source of friendship and support, helping her challenge her biases and embrace new perspectives. Hoke's steadfast presence and genuine care for Daisy highlight his resilience, empathy, and unwavering commitment to those he serves.

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In reference to our audition notices:

Most characters we encounter currently are on the binary and are written with he/him or she/her pronouns, and you will see that in the descriptions we provide. However limiting the descriptions are, our casting seeks to be as inclusive as possible, and we invite gender non-conforming, genderqueer, transgender, and non-binary actors to submit for the roles they most identify with. We will also list race/ethnicity when specific to the character but are otherwise seeking all races and ethnicities. It is the policy of Theatre Jacksonville that all auditions are open to the public. All interested people, newcomers and stage veterans alike, are welcome. We are also in need of volunteers to assist in other areas of production, including set construction, set artwork, lighting, and backstage technical activities and invite all members of the public to participate in these activities as well.