MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Theatre Program at The Ohio State University at Mansfield, in collaboration with the Mansfield Shakespeare Company, will present the Shakespearian classic “Romeo and Juliet” from February 28 through March 3.

In preparation for the play, the campus will hold public auditions on January 13 and 14 at 6 p.m. in Founders Auditorium. Theatre professor and producer Joe Fahey announced that auditions are open to students, staff, faculty, and the general public. There are numerous roles available, including acting and backstage positions.

“’Romeo and Juliet’ is a romance that has enthralled us for centuries,” said Fahey. “But it also has many great parts with scenes that are funny, moving, violent, passionate, and exciting to perform. This crisp, fast-moving abridgement pares down the text to move us forward at an intense pace toward the play’s wrenching conclusion.”

Fahey acknowledges that “Romeo and Juliet” can be an intimidating play for some, but he encourages participants to audition as they would for any other performance. “We do everything we can to make auditions a fun, positive experience,” he said. “Our auditions consist of readings from the script (we provide excerpts). Prepared monologues are also welcome but not required.”

Copies of the script are available on reserve at the circulation desk in Ohio State Mansfield’s Bromfield Library and Information Commons. Fahey encourages participants to read up in advance.

Working on a play is a great way to make new friends, build your resume, challenge yourself, and contribute to your community. This is the final play in the theater department’s 2024-2025 schedule.

Performances will be held on Friday, February 28, Saturday, March 1, and Monday, March 3 at 7:30 p.m. A matinee performance will take place on Sunday, March 2 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $10 and $6 and can be purchased online, by calling 419-755-4045, or by emailing mansfieldtheatre@osu.edu. Tickets will also be available at the on-site box office in Founders Auditorium 45 minutes before each show.

For more information about auditions or the performances, contact Joseph Fahey at fahey.9@osu.edu or 419-755-4276.