Audition
Posted 3 days agoSubmission Deadline:11/12/2026
Submit:https://casting.canadianstage.com/register/much-ado-about-nothing-muoa9o7o/submissions
Auditions
Toronto
11/16/2026
Toronto
11/17/2026
Toronto
11/20/2026
Accepting Requests to Self-Tape:No
Accepting Non-Local Artists:No
Agreement or Engagement Policy:Canadian Theatre Agreement (CTA)
Company Category:A
First Rehearsal Date:6/15/2027
Anticipated Closing Date:9/5/2027
Production DetailsDirected by Gregory Prest.
An emotionally rich and comedic 90-minute staging of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing - a story of unexpected love, deception, jealousy, and the beautiful folly of falling in love when you least expect it.
Set in Messina, where soldiers return from war to a world eager for celebration, romance, and new beginnings, Much Ado About Nothing is a comedy about love, unlikely lovers, and the surprising, messy, and sometimes painful business of opening oneself up to another person.
This version uses an ensemble of 12 performers who embody the full world of Messina.
Seeking a game ensemble of good, fun people with strong classical text skills, comedic instincts, and openness to collaboration.
All performers contribute to the musical and physical life of the play. Musical ability (singing and/or instrument) is an asset for all but not necessary. As ideas develop, the ensemble may be an essential driving force in the play. Performers must be game to explore various modes of theatrical storytelling as ensemble members, assisting with scene changes, peopling the world of Messina, filling out the sonic world of the play, and working together to build an ensemble-driven, emotionally rich telling of the story that embraces humour, romance, lightness, and beauty, even within its darker moments.
Casting BreakdownAUDITIONING FOR TWO ROLES:
Borachio – 25–35, male identifying, any ethnicity
A soldier and follower of Don John who uses his sexual relationship with Margaret to orchestrate the destruction of Hero and Claudio's marriage. Swaggering, sensual, and dangerous. A drinker with an appetite for pleasure, mischief, and betrayal. Must possess a strong physical presence, sexual confidence, and the ability to find pleasure in manipulation and cruelty, while accessing the darker emotional weight and consequences of his actions. A performer comfortable navigating both charm and villainy.
Understudy Tracks: Claudio, Dogberry
Conrade / Friar Francis – 25–35, male identifying, any ethnicity
Conrade is a soldier, attendant, and lover to Don John. Loyal, attentive, and eager to please, he follows Don John into mischief and betrayal. More follower than instigator, he is devoted to keeping his prince happy and remains complicit in his schemes. Doubles as Friar Francis, whose intelligence, compassion, and clear understanding of human behaviour help guide the play toward resolution. Requires an actor with excellent classical text skills, emotional intelligence, and the versatility to inhabit two contrasting characters. Strong singing ability and/or musical instrument skills a significant asset.
Understudy Track: Don Pedro
Audition and Submission InformationACTORS MUST BE TORONTO LOCAL.
Early submissions are encouraged.
TO SUBMIT, PLEASE FILL OUT THIS LINK: https://casting.canadianstage.com/register/much-ado-about-nothing-muoa9o7o/submissions
Accessibility Information**** Please note this theatre is OUTDOORS. Actors must be comfortable rehearsing and performing outside.
Ethnocultural Mandate / Casting StatementCanadian Stage is committed to building an anti-racist, equitable and inclusive cultural institution, and is committed to diverse, inclusive casting. We work to reflect the stories, ideas, concerns, and priorities of the communities we have been entrusted to serve authentically and meaningfully.
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