AUDITION CALL-OUT #3 – Australian Open: MAJOR NEW THEATRE WORKS PRODUCTION (2026)

TW
10 hours ago
2 min read

Theatre Works is seeking performers for Australian Open, Written by Angus Cameron and Directed by Riley Spadaro. Presented by Theatre Works for Midsumma Festival 2026.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

“A smart, sleek and epically glorious romp.” – Australian Arts Review

Australian Open is a fast-paced, razor-sharp comedy about tennis, queer love, and open relationships. On Felix’s 31st birthday, what begins as a casual family dinner explodes into a debauched game of doubles. Between parents obsessing over Lucas’ loss to Federer, and Felix’s casual revelation that he and Lucas intend to keep their relationship “open” even after marriage, boundaries are tested, loyalties shift, and the volleys get wilder.

This is an irreverent, sexy, and comedic play about modern relationships and the rules we invent for love.

PERFORMANCE DETAILS

Venue: Theatre Works Main Stage, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda
Bump In / Tech: Commencing Monday 19 January 2026
Preview: Wednesday 21 January, 7:00 pm
Opening Night: Thursday 22 January, 7:00 pm
Season:
- Thursday 22 – Saturday 24 January, 7:00 pm
- Tuesday 27 – Saturday 31 January, 7:00 pm
Additional performances may be added subject to demand
Rehearsals: Late December 2025 – January 2026, Melbourne

CHARACTERS

(All roles open to diverse casting – we strongly encourage applications from LGBTQIA+ identifying performers and actors of all cultural backgrounds.)

Felix (31, male-identifying)

Witty, self-aware, a little self-indulgent. At ease in his sexuality and relationship choices, but naïve about how they affect those around him.

Lucas (late 20s–30s, male-identifying)

Professional tennis player. Driven, charismatic, carrying the weight of competition and expectation. Loves Felix deeply but struggles with the demands of both love and career.

Belinda (50s–60s, female-identifying)

Felix’s mother. Outspoken, opinionated, and a master of emotional spin. Loves her son but finds herself at odds with his lifestyle choices.

Peter (50s–60s, male-identifying)

Felix’s father. Straight-talking, dry-humoured, and bewildered by the emotional openness of the younger generation. His blunt honesty provides both humour and tension.

Annabelle (20s–30s, female-identifying)

A spark of chaos in the mix – playful, sharp, and quick with a comeback. Annabelle’s presence stirs the pot and complicates the family dynamic.

FEES

This is a stipend-based engagement. All performers will receive a flat stipend in recognition of their participation in rehearsals and the performance season.

(This is an independent production presented as part of Theatre Works’ Midsumma 2026 season.)

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

Strong comedic timing and sharp ensemble skills
Physicality and pace — ability to attack the dialogue with energy and precision
A willingness to lean into the play’s heightened style, making the text fizz beyond naturalism
Collaborative, playful spirit