Attention all actors: Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary? Ford's Theatre Society is gearing up for its 2026-27 season, and we’re calling all Equity actors to join us in bringing these iconic stories to life. But here’s where it gets exciting—the season lineup won’t be officially revealed until Spring 2026, so you’re in on a secret! We’re asking for your discretion: no social media leaks, please. This is your chance to be part of a season that includes Come From Away, A Christmas Carol, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. But here’s where it gets controversial: With roles open to all ethnicities and a commitment to diversity, we’re challenging traditional casting norms. Is this the future of theatre, or are we losing something in the process? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Audition Details:
Date: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (E), with a lunch break from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Pearl Studios (500), 500 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018-6504. Holding room in Studio 1201.
Contract: LORT Non-Rep, with a weekly minimum of $1213 (LORT B).
What We’re Looking For:
For non-musicals, prepare a 90-second monologue from the American drama canon. For musicals, choose a contemporary musical theatre piece or a pop song (also 90 seconds max). Bring your sheet music—an accompanist will be provided. You can also combine a monologue and a song, but keep it under 2 minutes total. Don’t forget your headshot and resume, stapled together.
Key Personnel:
- Erika Scott, Artistic Programming Manager
- Stephanie Klapper, Casting Director
- Joe Piserchio & Gracie Guichard, Casting Assistants
- Claire Stancy, Assistant to Stephanie Klapper
Season Breakdown:
1. Come From Away (September 9 - October 18, 2026)
- Claude: Male, 40-60, open ethnicity. The beloved Mayor of Gander, Newfoundland.
- Bonnie: Female, 30-40, open ethnicity. A no-nonsense mom and SPCA head.
- Beverly: Female, 50-60, White. The first female captain for American Airlines, doubling as Annette, a local teacher.
- And many more roles—all with understudies.
A Christmas Carol (November 18 - December 31, 2026)
- Ebenezer Scrooge: 50s or older. A transformative role from miser to philanthropist.
- Ghost of Christmas Past/Doll Vendor: 30s or older. A joyful guide to Scrooge’s past.
- Bob Cratchit: 30s-40s. Scrooge’s cheerful and devoted employee.
- Seeking understudies for all roles.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (March 12 - May 15, 2027)
- Chip Tolentino: Male. The reigning champion with a high vocal range and a chip on his shoulder.
- Olive Ostrovsky: Female. A shy word lover with a quiet life and a big heart.
- Rona Lisa Perretti: Female. The spelling bee hostess with a flair for drama.
- All roles are open to all ethnicities.
Why This Matters:
Ford’s Theatre is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and abilities to audition. And this is the part most people miss: Equity’s contracts explicitly prohibit discrimination, making this audition a beacon for inclusive casting. But does this approach dilute authenticity, or does it enrich storytelling? Share your thoughts below.
For more information, visit https://fords.org/. Don’t forget to bring your Equity Membership card, and let’s make theatre history together!
