AuditionS — Submit by May 15
Stupid Fucking Bird by Aaron Posner
About the Show
Stupid Fucking Bird — a bold, darkly funny, and emotionally raw remix of Chekhov’s The Seagull — is a play that knows it’s a play, filled with people who don’t quite know who they are.
Through heartbreak, artistic failure, and existential yearning, these characters navigate a world full of longing, illusion, and the absurdity of being human. Expect songs, meta-theatrical moments, and painfully honest emotions. It’s funny, messy, and profoundly real.
AUDITION DETAILS
Preliminary auditions will be by video submission. Please upload yours in the form on this page.
Auditions will consist of prepared monologues from the play. Access materials here:
Feel free to record pieces for any and all roles you feel suited for.
In-person callbacks will be by invitation only in the third week of May.
Casting Approach
This production embraces inclusive casting. All ethnicities, gender expressions, and body types are encouraged to audition. Though grounded in Chekhov, this is a contemporary, American reimagining that thrives on boldness and authenticity.
Some characters sing or play instruments. Let us know your musical skills on the audition form!
Roles
Con (Male, 25–35): A tortured playwright yearning for artistic revolution. Passionate, insecure, and emotionally combustible.
Nina (Female, 20–30): An idealistic actress chasing beauty and validation. Her journey is one of enchantment, heartbreak, and awakening.
Emma Arkadina (Female, 40–50): A famed actress clinging to relevance. Glamorous, controlling, and razor-sharp.
Trig (Doyle Trigorin) (Male, 35–50): A celebrated writer who leaves wreckage in his wake. Charismatic, detached, and dangerously charming.
Mash (Female, 18–25): Deadpan and heartbroken, she masks vulnerability with wit. Sings melancholy songs.
Dev (Male, 20–30): Warm, nerdy, and quietly wise. In love with Mash, unnoticed by most.
Dr. Sorn (Male, 45–65): Con’s uncle. Reflective, emotionally attuned, and deeply lonely.
REHEARSAL & PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Rehearsals Begin: June 14 (approx. 4 rehearsals/week)
Tech Begins: July 21
Final Dress Rehearsal: July 24
Performances: July 25-27, August 1-3, 8-10
CONTENT ADVISORY
This play includes mature and emotionally intense themes:
Mental illness, depression, suicide (attempted, offstage)
Sexual and romantic coercion
Infidelity, grief, family trauma, sexual harassment
References to nudity, physical intimacy, and non-graphic staged intimacy
Please review the full script or this breakdown for specifics. All questions welcome at jeremy@theatreextempore.com.
Note: There will be no nudity or physical intimacy required during auditions or callbacks. Intimacy levels will be thoroughly discussed and respected in casting.
