By David Rogers. February 8, 2012. BLOWING ROCK -- Ensemble Stage of Blowing Rock is looking for both professional and non-professional actors for the theatre company's April-November season, and will conduct auditions on Saturday, February 25, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Sunday, February 26, 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Artistic director Gary Smith outlined for Blowing Rock News earlier this morning that Ensemble Stage will be producing three "interactive murder mystery" productions, six "mainstage" productions, and four "theatre for young audiences" productions.

"We are looking," Smith said, "for both professional and non-professional actors, including men and women from ages 18-70, and boys and girls from 10-17. Candidates should not be intimidated by the fact that professional actors will also be auditioning for our roles. Good acting is good acting, professional or not.  In 2011, over 50% of the actors we used were non-professional.  We understand that talented non-professionals also have other jobs.  We make every effort to adjust rehearsal schedules based on our actors' schedules."

Auditions are by appointment only.  Interested actors should call 828-414-1844 to schedule an audition.

Candidates auditioning should prepare two contrasting monologues that total no more than 90 seconds each. "You might also be asked to perform a cold-reading from scripts," added Ensemble's Managing Director, Lisa Lamont.

Smith and Lamont noted to Blowing Rock News that all actors are paid. AEA actors will receive an Equity contract under a special appearance agreement. Some housing is available.

Play Readings

Ensemble Stage continues to invite members of the community to weekly play readings in a casual atmosphere. "We read out loud," Smith said, "the scripts for possible future projects that we might actually put on stage. Folks can try their hand at giving a character a voice, or just sit back, listen, and help us evaluate the artistic and commercial potential of a particular show for this market. These readings will have a major bearing on our selections for the upcoming summer season, so our audience members participating in play readings are very important to us.  And this is FREE -- and it is FUN!  How many places can you get free fun?"

Electrician Needed

Ensemble Stage is working with the Blowing Rock School PTO and Watauga County Schools to make the Blowing Rock School Auditorium more aesthetically appealing, as well as compliant with current building codes.  Ensemble Stage's responsibility in that task is to rewire the lighting system and install conduit from the breaker box to the lighting system power source.  Anyone knowing a CERTIFIED electrician that might help should call 828-414-1844, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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