05/29/2026
ATTENTION ACTORS!!! EARLY AUDITION NOTICE FOR FALL 2026!!!
Golden West College Theater Arts Department presents...
THE ELEPHANT MAN
By Bernard Pomerance
Directed by Tom Amen
GENERAL AUDITION – OPEN CALL:
September 9th at 7:00 PM
Stage West Theater
Golden West College
15751 Gothard Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
CALLBACK AUDITION (As Needed/By Invitation Only):
September 10th at 7:00 PM
Stage West Theater
Golden West College
15751 Gothard Street
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
AUDITION PREPARATION: Please Read the Play
PAY: None
PLEASE NOTE: Actors cast in THE ELEPHANT MAN will be required to enroll in a Tuition Free/Non-Credit production course. This course does not require any additional hours beyond the rehearsal and performance of the play itself.
ABOUT THE PLAY:
Set in 19th century London and based on a true story, THE ELEPHANT MAN follows the tragic yet heroic journey of Joseph Merrick, a severely deformed young man subjected to a life of unimaginable cruelty and degradation. Discovered physically and emotionally abused in a wretched back-alley freakshow, Merrick is rescued by esteemed physician, Frederick Treves, who soon discovers an intelligent and sensitive soul hidden beneath a shockingly disfigured appearance. Yet despite his evolution from object of pity to fashionable curiosity in elite social circles, Merrick continues to grapple with his most daunting challenge – to be recognized as a man, rather than a monster. Contrasting a world of exploitation, voyeurism, and hypocrisy with themes of dignity, compassion, and faith, THE ELEPHANT MAN is a timeless tale of what it means to be a human being.
NOTE: This production contains adult nudity, language, and situations, and is intended for mature audiences.
AVAILABLE ROLES: Roles for 8+ Men and 5+ Women
ROLES OPEN: All
PRELIMINARY CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:
Frederick Treves: (Does NOT Double - Age: 30-40ish w/Proper English Dialect) The lead surgeon of the London Hospital who discovers Merrick in a sideshow attraction. A morally/ethically complex man navigated by the rigidity of his time. Compassionate, yet controlling. Pure in intention, yet plagued with guilt, and not wholly indifferent to his growing notoriety brought on by his work with Merrick.
Carr Gomm: (Doubles as Conductor and Possibly Others - Age: 40-60ish w/Proper English and Possible Cockney Dialects) The primary role for this actor is that of a manager of the London Hospital, who oversees finances, etc. A wise man. More empathetic than his no-nonsense persona leads on. Does not tolerate intolerance. A closed book but an open mind. A mentor to Treves.
Joseph Merrick aka The Elephant Man: (Does NOT Double - Age: 27 w/Inhibited English Dialect) Profoundly physically and vocally encumbered. A sensitive, intelligent, engaging, and thoughtful man of faith. The director will describe his condition to actors at the audition, while the author cautions that actors with histories of back or muscle issues should not play Merrick.
Mrs. Kendal: (Does NOT Double – Age: 30-50 w/Sophisticated English Dialect) A well-known stage actress within the London Theatre scene. A deeply empathetic individual who sees in Merrick what others cannot see or refuse to see. An effortlessly charming, but wholly authentic woman. PLEASE NOTE: The role of Mrs. Kendal requires brief posterior/profile nudity.
Ross: (Doubles as Bishop How and Possibly Others - Age 50-60 w/Varying English Dialects) Ross is a course and vulgar man. A predatory opportunist – he is selfish and cruel. Bishop How is a “respectable” member of the clergy, but is also a bit of an opportunist.
The Ensemble: Princesses, Countesses, Lords, Commoners, Policemen, Train Conductors, Nurses, Orderlies, Pinheads, etc. These roles require experienced, versatile actors able to play multiple characters throughout the play. This large collection of characters functions in a manner similar to an ancient Greek Chorus. They are critical to the storytelling and overall effect of the play. These roles are also incredibly fun and will provide wonderful challenge for a small handful of actors of varying ages!
FULL CHARACTER BREAKDOWN COMING SOON!!!
Meanwhile, please feel free to contact Director Tom Amen at [email protected] for further audition details and/or character/casting requirements!
GENERAL REHEARSAL AND PERFORMANCE INFORMATION:
Rehearsal Schedule: Monday – Thursday from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM beginning September 23rd.
PRODUCTION RUN: November 13th – 22nd, 2026
PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE: Thursday - Saturday at 7:30 PM, Sunday at 2:00 PM
TOTAL PERFORMANCES: 7
PERFORMANCE VENUE: Performances will be held in the 339-seat Mainstage Theater at Golden West College. A well-equipped proscenium space, the Mainstage Theater is located at 15751 Gothard Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
