The Story

Christopher Hampton’s awarding winning play Les Liaisons Dangereuses was adapted from the novel of the same title by Pierre Chanderlos de Laclos (published in 1782) and was first performed at the RSC in 1984. This is a deliciously clever and witty script, with 10 wonderful roles for 6 women and 4 men, as well as a small ensemble who play various servants in the Merteuil, Rosemonde, Tourvel and Valmont households

The play tells the story of the Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont, narcissists, rivals and ex-lovers, who use sex as a weapon, to frustrate and humiliate, whilst all the time enjoying their cruel games. They target the virtuous Madame de Tourvel and innocent Cecile de Valonges to gain their trust, so they can use them to further their treacherous schemes.

Set in late 18th Century France at the onset of the French Revolution, these are rich and powerful characters, focused on themselves, oblivious to the gathering storm and their own contribution to the destruction of their society.

Auditions are open to anyone, regardless of background or experience, and we particularly welcome those who have been traditionally under-represented in theatre.

Characters and Actors (Playing ages are an indication only, but also illustrate the age relative to other roles)

The Marquise de Merteuil (~40): (identifying as female)– A widow and woman of considerable means. Privileged, a master manipulator, a controlling schemer who easily exudes charm. The toast of all Paris considered wise and chaste, though she has had more lovers than most professionals. This role requires the actress to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Vicomte de Valmont (~35): (identifying as male)– Rich, elegant, a cynical pleasure seeker, a spoiled libertine. Previously the lover and confidant of the Marquise de Merteuil. He is ruthless, and a seducer, but falls in love with Presidente Madame de Tourvel, which leads to his downfall. This role requires the actor to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Madame de Valonges (~50): (identifying as female)– A respectable widow and mother to Cecile, who arranges anadvantageous marriage for her daughter. A cousin to the Marquise de Mertreuil and close confident of Presidente Madame de Tourvel.

Cecile de Valonges (~18): (identifying as female)– Daughter of Madame de Valonges. Young, naive, recently released from her convent education. Easily duped, she is preyed upon by Merteuil and Valmont who ruin her reputation. In love with Chevalier Danceny. This role requires the actress to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Presidente Madame de Tourvel (~30) (identifying as female)– Chaste, religious, wife to a member of Parliament. She is seduced and falls in love with Valmont, which is her tragic undoing. This role requires the actress to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Le Chevalier Danceny (~30) (identifying as male)– Rich, young aristocrat, he becomes the pet of Merteuil and the student of Valmont. Falls in love with Cecile and fights to protect her reputation. This role requires the actor to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Alazon (~30/40) (identifying as male)– Valet to the Vicomte de Valmont, he is often required to offer bribes and sleep with other servants to get information for his master. Charming, manipulative. Will take part in scene changes.

Madame de Rosemonde (~70/80) (identifying as female)– Aunt of the Vicomte de Valmont. Invites people to visit her at her country estate. She corresponds and offers advice to Tourvel in relation to her feelings for Valmont. She’s wise, circumspect, yet open hearted in a world of cynics.

Emile (~20/30) (identifying as female)– A Courtesan in league with Valmont. Experienced, knowing, confident, playful. This role requires the actress to perform choreographed theatrical intimacy.

Major Domo (~50s) – (identifying as male) In the service of Mme de Merteuil. Aware of his importance in the household. Efficient. Discreet. Has the confidence of his mistress. Will take part in scene changes.

Julie (~20) (identifying as female) a maid in Madame de Rosemonde’s chateau, she is the object of Azalan’s seduction. Enthusiastic, impetuous, ambitious. Will play a significant role in scene changes

Georges (~20 /40) (identifying as male) Footman in Merteuil’s service.  Discreet, executes his duties impeccably, precisely, and gracefully. Will play a significant role in scene changes.

Victoire (~40/60) (identifying as female) servant in Madame de Rosemonde’s service.  Experienced, dedicated, focused, efficient; she has seen it all and keeps it to herself. Will play a significant role in scene changes

BOOKING AN AUDITION

AUDITION DATES

Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 7 – 10 p.m.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 7 – 10 p.m.
CALLBACKS (IF NEEDED)

Saturday, October 19, 2024, 1– 4 p.m.

CALLBACKS ONLY: If you are auditioning, please keep this date open until advised otherwise. Please be prepared to be available for the full three hours. Callbacks ​will consist of scenes from the show. We ask that you be available for the full time.  

Auditions will be in person at the Scarborough Players Rehearsal Unit

Auditions must be booked in advance.

TO REQUEST AN AUDITION, SEND AN E-MAIL TO audition4sp@gmail.com

Please note: Email is the most efficient way to book an audition

Auditions are booked in 10-minute slots. Please indicate the role in which you are interested.

Requirements: Please prepare a short dramatic monologue – no more than 90 seconds. Something you know well. Be prepared to be re-directed. There will be cold readings from the play. Please contact audition4sp@gmail.com for more information about the play.

Once you have booked your audition, we will be sending you forms to complete at home. We also ask you to please email your resume and headshot/photo with your audition request. We will be managing contact, distancing, and numbers in the space.

LOCATION

Auditions and Rehearsals will be held at 780 Birchmount, Unit 5 (West side of Birchmount, south of Eglinton, beside the Alison’s Fine Foods). There is parking in front and near the entrance to the unit. TTC accessible by #17 Bus from Warden Station or any Eglinton West bus from Kennedy Station.  However, Eglinton is under construction with the Cross-Town route and traffic can be slow from Kennedy. Please check with TTC for updates.

Very Important:

First read-through will be Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 7:30 p.m.

Most rehearsals will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 7:30 – 10:30 p.m. and Sundays, 1 – 5 p.m.

Some rehearsals and all performances are at Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Road (at Markham Road).

Additional rehearsals may be added as we move closer to the production opening, especially the week of opening. You will be asked to please list ANY potential conflicts. Please note: the production will need to rehearse when the theatre is available over the December holiday season 2024. Flexibility will be greatly appreciated.

Scarborough Players is an inclusive community theatre company and encourages all interested individuals from all backgrounds to audition. Those auditioning must be non-equity performers and understand that this is a non-paying production. We do not enter into any contracts or agreements with CAEA or ACTRA.