JAKE'S WOMEN

JAKE’S WOMEN by Neil Simon Directed By Bernard Teuben Season June 4 – 26 AUDITION DATE: Monday 8th February 7.30 for an 8pm start About the Play Middle- aged, flirting with infidelity whilst contemplating an attempt to save his failing second marriage, Jake is a man on the brink. A writer in the midst of a bout of writers block and suffering from psychosis he seeks to find meaning by talking with all the various women who have shaped his life – from a revered first wife, to his daughter, bossy sister, opinionated analyst, his current wife and current flirt. Some of these conversations happen only in his imagination, others take place in real life – making for an hilarious and poignant tale of trust, hope and the desire for change. From the pen of Neil Simon, the writer of California Suite, The Odd Couple and Brighton Beach Memoirs this play has his usual sense of humour and is filled with his trademark angst-ridden middle class characters who struggle with their lives and choices. However, despite all the pity one-liners and laugh out loud moments, Jake’s Women also has moments of tragedy and pain, heartfelt emotion and real human drama. Casting Jake M 40 60 Jake is a Novelist who is more successful with fiction than life, facing a marital crisis by daydreaming about the women in his life. Maggie F 35 50 Jake's second (current) wife. She is matter-of fact, a career-oriented woman who loves Jake deeply but cannot deal with his inability to communicate with her as a real person. She exists in "real time" as well as in Jake's imagination. Karen F 40 50 Jake's sister. She is divorced and shares Jake's wit and sharp attention to detail. In Jake's dialogues with her, she is cynical, frustrated, very acerbic. Young Molly F 10 15 Jake's daughter at 12. In his mind, she is the perfect, loving, non-problematic kid. Older Molly F 17 25 Jake's daughter at 21. A college student who longs to know more about her mother. Julie F 20 35 Jake's first wife. She has died, and therefore lives only in Jake's memory. He tries to idealize her, but as he loses control of his characters, she begins to interact with her daughter and refuses to be idealized. Edith F 40 70 Jake's therapist. Jake "writes" sessions with her. In them she is both a voice of reason and very annoying. Sheila F 30 50 Jake's girlfriend. She is the only woman Jake does not create in his mind. She loves Jake, but can't cope with his indecisions as the Maggie in his mind takes over his relationship with her. Audition Requirements 1. Please prepare a 1 minute contemporary monologue (not from the play) with an attempt at standard American accent. 2. Readings from the play If you are interested in reading a script or have any questions contact Bernard on 0419 265 385 or bernardt@bigpond.net.au