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Attention! Starbird Theatre is holding auditions for the production of “These Shining Lives” by Melanie Marnich. Directed by Cristyn LaChaine and Gina George.Auditions will be held at The Vancouver ArtsHub (1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd.) on March 9th from 1-3 pm. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Please provide a resume and headshot. See additional details below.
Play Synopsis: “These Shining Lives” by Melanie Marnich is based on the true story of women who worked at the Radium Dial Company in the 1920s, painting watch dials with radium-based paint. The women initially took pride in their work, but soon developed severe health issues from the toxic exposure. The play follows Catherine Donohue as she becomes aware of the harmful effects of radium and struggles with her own illness while seeking justice for herself and her co-workers. It explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the fight against corporate negligence. Catherine and the other women ultimately challenge the company, demanding accountability for the suffering they endured. The play highlights the human cost of industrial progress and the courage of those who fought for workers' rights and justice.
We are looking to cast a minimum of 6 actors for the following roles:
1. Catherine Donohue
Catherine is a determined and loving mother and wife who works at the radium dial factory to support her family. As she begins to suffer from radium poisoning, Catherine becomes a symbol of strength and resilience, fighting for justice despite her deteriorating health. She’s compassionate, brave, and unwavering in her pursuit of truth.
2. Charlotte Williamson
Charlotte is Catherine's fun-loving and spirited coworker. She provides moments of levity amidst the dark reality of their illness, using humor to cope with the suffering. Despite the growing effects of radium poisoning, she maintains a tough, optimistic attitude, symbolizing the camaraderie and hope shared among the women. The actress playing Charlotte also plays Reporter 1.
3. Frances O’Reilly
Frances is Catherine’s close friend at the factory. She’s warm, loyal, and a strong source of emotional support. As she faces her own battle with radium poisoning, Frances remains a voice of encouragement and solidarity, embodying the deep friendships forged in the face of tragedy. The actress playing Frances also plays Reporter 2 and an Official.
4. Pearl
Pearl is another factory worker who joins the group of women affected by the radium poisoning. She is more reserved and quiet compared to the others but plays a key role in showing the widespread nature of the sickness and the personal toll it takes on everyone, regardless of their demeanor. The actress playing Pearl also plays the Daughter and Judge 2.
5. Tom Donohue
Tom is Catherine’s loving but increasingly frustrated husband. Initially supportive, he becomes overwhelmed by Catherine's illness and the seeming indifference of the world around them. His character evolves from a caring protector to a man struggling with helplessness and anger as his wife’s health declines. The actor playing Tom also plays Dr. Rowantree and Dr. Dalitsch.
6. Mr. Reed
Mr. Reed is the factory's representative, embodying corporate indifference. He dismisses the women’s health concerns and is focused on protecting the company’s interests. His cold, calculating nature highlights the lack of accountability and the exploitation of the workers’ lives for profit. The actor playing Mr. Reed also plays the Radio Announcer, the Company Doctor, the Son, Judge, and Leonard Grossman.
Readthrough and rehearsals will be held at The Vancouver ArtsHub (1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd.)
Performance Venue: Jefferson Middle School (3000 NW 119th St., Vancouver, WA 98685)
Read Through – 3/12/25
Rehearsals - 3/13/25, 3/17/25, 3/18/25, 3/24/25, 3/25/25, 3/29/25, 3/31/25, 4/1/25, 4/5/25, 4/7/25, 4/8/25, 4/12/25, 4/14/25, 4/15/25, 4/21/25, 4/22/25, 4/26/25, 4/28/25, 4/29/25, 5/3/25, 5/6/25
(Weekdays 6:30pm-9:00 pm, Saturdays 10am-2 pm unless otherwise specified)
Move In/Tech/Dress Rehearsal: 5/5/25 at 4pm
Performances: 5/9/25 (evening), 5/10/25 (matinee/evening), 5/11/25 (matinee)
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
1007 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98663-3504, United States
