These Shining Lives
by Melanie Marnich | Directed by Jane Toczek
Four young women find friendship and solidarity at a well-paying radium dial factory job in the 1920s. Years later, as they realize that their health has been compromised by the work, they unite and support each other while exposing the truth.
AUDITIONS:
Monday, June 15, 2026
Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Callbacks will be by invitation only on Monday, June 22, 2026
CASTING: Actors of all races are strongly encouraged to audition for every role.
Catherine Donohue: (Female presenting) Mid to late 20s. A young wife and mother of two. She works at the Radium Dial Company. While she is quiet, sensitive and reflective at times, she is by no means weak. She is full of life and passion for her work, her friends, and her husband.
Frances: (Female presenting) Mid to late 20s. A worker at the factory. She is the ‘moral backbone’ of the group, but is more flexible than she lets on. She acts as a mediator during the beginning of the show between Charlotte and Catherine. (Will also play Reporter 2, an Official.)
Charlotte: (Female presenting) Mid to late 20s. A worker at the factory. She is outspoken and hard-boiled. She is competitive and has a biting sense of humor. Underneath this front, however, she is just as kind hearted as her friends. (Will also play Reporter 1.)
Pearl: (Female presenting) Mid to late 20s. A worker alongside Catherine at the factory. Sweet and supportive she is the “joker of the group.” But Pearl has a hard time coming to terms with her developing illness. (Will also play Daughter, Judge 2.)
Tom Donohue: (Male presenting) Mid to late 20s. The husband of Catherine Donohue, a riveter on the skyscrapers of Chicago. He loves Catherine and is extremely devoted to her, but is somewhat unsettled when his wife starts making more money than he does. (Will also play Dr. Rowntree, Dr. Dalitsch.)
Mr. Reed: (Male presenting) 30s-50s. The overseer of the factory. His heart is usually with the girls, but when put under pressure he is a pawn of the Radium Dial Company and has to follow orders. (Will also play Radio Announcer, Company Doctor, Son, Judge, Leonard Grossman.)
The Stagecrafters welcomes performers of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and lived experiences to audition. Each production presents unique casting considerations, yet our commitment to representation, authenticity, and a welcoming environment guides every step of the process.
PERFORMANCES:
September 18, 2026 - October 4, 2026
WHERE:
The Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia PA 19118
Please sign up for an audition slot via our These Shining Lives Audition Form
After you submit this form, please email us your headshot and resume to [email protected]
