HAND ME DOWN THE SILVER TRUMPET Auditions

Rutgers University–Camden Theater Program is seeking submissions from local AEA and Non-Union performers for its production of HAND ME DOWN THE SILVER TRUMPET, a one-act musical that celebrates the legacy of great Black recording artists of the 1920s and 30s coming out of Camden, NJ's Victor Records.  Kenneth Elliott, the playwright, is set to direct.  The show features classic blues, jazz, and gospel music performed by student actors, professional guest artists, and a truly swinging band!  For more information, you can view a trailer video from the 2014 World Premiere - https://youtu.be/kWR3y1ddRq0?si=NBJyVDwDbNGj9m6E

SEEKING:

• Dionne/Mamie: LEAD - Female, 40, Black/African American, Strong singer. Dionne is a contemporary mother of a Rutgers student; Mamie is a 1920s recording artist under contract to Victor Records. Must be comfortable singing blues, gospel, and jazz. A soulful belt.
• James: Male, Early 20's, Black/African American. Singer/dancer. He is a precocious college student in his sophomore year.
• Jazz Man 1 and Jazz Man 2: Two Black/African American male Singer/Dancers, 20s-30s. Doubles as two moving company workers and then two 1920s studio musicians. True "song and dance" show-biz performers who can light up a room with high-energy. Can dance and move very well.
• Smithers: Caucasian man 30s+. Non-singing role. A gruff studio technician.
• Alberta: Female, 20s, Black/African American. Singer/Dancer, Mamie’s protégé, very sweet and a bit naïve.
• Jasmine: Female, 20s, Black/African American. Singer/Dancer, a friend of Alberta’s, a studio musician, tough and scrappy.
• Ethel: Female, 30s, Black/African American. A studio musician.
• Rev. McGee: Male, 40s, Black/African American. A charismatic 1920s preacher with a booming voice. Strong commanding gospel presence.

 Production Calendar

• Tuesday, January 6, 2026: First rehearsal (10:00-6:00)
• Tuesday, January 20, 2026: First day of spring semester; rehearsal moves to academic schedule (Tuesday – Thursday 6-10pm; Saturday/Sunday as needed 12-5pm)
• Friday, January 30: First tech rehearsal in the Walter K. Gordon Theater
• Performances
  • Friday 2/6 – 7:30pm
  • Saturday 2/7 – 7:30pm
  • Sunday 2/8 – 2pm
  • Thursday 2/12 - 7:30pm
  • Friday 2/13 – 10am Student Matinee and 7:30pm
  • Saturday 2/14 - 7:30pm
  • Sunday 2/15 – 2pm Closing

For consideration, please submit your headshot and resume ASAP via this online form: https://airtable.com/appYfegdGd8mVizMH/pagYpfD9m6ve0eXiU/form

Auditions will be conducted from within the university's student body first mid-November, and then outside actors will be hired to fill the remaining roles.