The Candlelight Theatre, located in historic Ardentown, Delaware (30 minutes from Center City, Philadelphia) is seeking non-union, singer/dancer/actors for its upcoming production of Ragtime which runs September 13 to October 26, 2025. Directed and staged by Peter Reynolds and Julianna Babb. The Candlelight Theatre encourages performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and ages, as well as performers with disabilities to attend auditions.
Auditions will be held by appointment on Monday, June 9th 6:00 – 10:00 pm and Tuesday, June 10th 6:00 – 10:00. Callbacks will be scheduled if needed. Rehearsals begin on or around Tuesday, July 22 and are through Friday, September 12, 2025. The show runs September 13 – October 26, 2025.
It’s the dawn of the 20th century in New York and everything is possible. Three uniquely American tales are woven together and united by their shared belief in the promise of the future. Together, they confront history’s timeless contradictions of wealth and poverty, freedom and prejudice, hope and despair… and what it means to live in the “land of opportunity.” Nominated for an astounding 13 Tonys and written by the award-winning composer/lyricist team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, and noted playwright Terrence McNally, RAGTIME is based on E.L. Doctorow’s distinguished novel of the same name. Production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.
Character Breakdown
Coalhouse Walker Jr. - Male, 25–35, a proud and talented pianist (actor’s ability to play not necessary). A Black man who believes that he can take part in the new America and will be treated fairly. G2—A4.
Sarah - Female, 20–25, washwoman. Sarah is a young Black woman, beautiful and filled with a strong will to live, fueled by an innocent spirit. Falls deeply in love with Coalhouse after much resistance. G#3—F#5.
Mother - Female, 30–40, the consummate wife and mother. A kind woman with incredible moral fiber. Refined, intelligent, graceful and open-minded. G3—F#5.
Father- Male, 30–45, Mother’s professionally successful husband. Fancies himself an amateur explorer, he is commanding and attractive. Enjoys being the family breadwinner, a traditionalist. A2—F4.
Tateh- Male, 35–45, a Latvian immigrant. He wears the trials and tribulations of his past on his sleeve but remains optimistic that he will be successful. Full of genuine drive and heart. He lives for his little daughter. Bb2—F#4.
Little Girl- Female, 7–10, Tateh’s daughter. A vulnerable child in a brand-new home, she has lost her mother and is guarded and shy. She clings to her father. C4—Bb4.
Younger Brother Male, 20–25, Mother’s younger brother. He is an erratic and passionate soul, a firework waiting to be lit. Influenced greatly by Goldman’s teachings. B2—F#4.
Little Boy - Male, 8–12, Caucasian. Mother and Father’s son. He is open-hearted and curious with inexplicable clairvoyance. Never passes judgment on others. E4—D5.
Grandfather - Male, 60-70, Mother’s patrician father. He is a retired professor and easily irritated by nearly everything.
Booker T. Washington - Male, 45-55, brilliant Black social activist. He is an eloquent and articulate gentleman with no patience for Black Americans leading less than exemplary lives. Eb4-D3
Emma Goldman - Female, 35–45, social activist. Originally from Russia, she is a leader, a fearless advocate for the oppressed. B3—D5.
Evelyn Nesbit - Female, 21–25, beautiful vaudeville performer. Thrust into the limelight after the high-profile murder of her lover, the entire world is her stage. B3—D5.
Harry Houdini - Male, 25–35. The famous magician, originally from Hungary. With notable physical ability, he stands as a symbol of the American Dream. E3—G4.
Ensemble Any gender, age, identity. A highly diverse group of actors to play featured roles. Must be able to sing and move well, to play: Baseball Fans, Coalhouse Supporters,bFiremen, Immigrants to America, New Rochelle Citizens, Reporters, Vacationers, Coalhouse’s Lawyer, Harlem Citizens, Matthew Henson
Please send (e-mail) pictures and resumes to Bob Kelly, Artistic Director [email protected]
and indicate your preference for either a Monday or Tuesday audition slot. Calls will be made to arrange audition times for selected applicants.
For auditions, please prepare 16 - 32 bars in the style of the show. Songs from the show are acceptable. An accompanist will be provided. Please provide clearly marked sheet music. No recorded tracks please. Readings will be provided. Please come with headshot and resume stapled together.
Auditions for Ragtime
Monday, June 9th 6:00 -10:00pm
Tuesday, June 10th 6:00 – 10pm
The Candlelight Theater, 2208 Millers Rd. Wilmington, De. 19810
No calls to the theater, please.
