CALLOUT: Open Auditions for Macbeth

Produced by Shakespeare North Playhouse. Directed by Ben Crystal.

Macbeth schedule 

• Rehearsals from 17 August – 5 September 2026
• Previews 11, 12 and 14 September 2026
• Press Night 15 September 2026
• Final 3 October 2026

Audition details 

• Audition type: Workshop
• Length: 2 hours
• Dates: 28th & 29th May
• Times: 10-12pm, 2-4pm
• Venue: LIPA, Liverpool City Centre
• Prep: Come prepared to play physically; loose comfortable clothing. No denim please. Bring water, something to write with, and a Shakespeare Sonnet you’d like to explore that resonates with you.

Please send CV, headshot or Spotlight link, and any words you might like to add about why you think you’re a good fit for this project to  artists@shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk with the subject line “Macbeth Audition” 

Please note: due to the number of applications we anticipate, we will not be able to invite every applicant to the workshop auditions.

About the production and process 

An ensemble-driven rehearsal process, split between dynamic, bold and highly skilled physical work, and in-depth text work.

The performances will be candle-lit, both by candelabra above, and by practical ‘in-hand’ candles, so artists will often be lighting themselves, and each other.

This production will be playing ‘in the round’, and there will be little-to-no fixed blocking. The rehearsal process will explore and train the artists in the stage-craft needed to play the show ‘different every night’.

The production will feature few props, little set, and a 90 minute cut of the original text.

Rather than any ‘Shakespeare’ voices, you, and your natural accent, are enough. If English isn’t your first language, you’re welcome to bring a translation of your Sonnet.

There will be live underscore by a cellist, creating a sound-scape in playful response to the actors.

Who we’re looking for: 

• People from all backgrounds and abilities, we especially encourage applications from those with protected characteristics who are currently underrepresented in the arts.
• Physically & textually curious & specific.
• Imaginative & improvisatory.
• Playful and flexible.
• Muscular ability to learn lines quickly.
• Great storytellers.

Casting 

This is a collaborative process. Artists will be cast as part of the Ensemble. Specific roles will then be handed out that best serve that particular Ensemble, and the play.

Applicants are of course welcome to express interest in specific roles.

We welcome applications from actors who are not currently represented by an agent

Please note: actors may end up playing multiple parts, and some small roles may be assigned collaboratively during the rehearsal process.

About Ben 

Ben is an actor, author, and creative producer.

He is an Associate Artist with the Shakespeare North Playhouse, and a consultant for theatre companies around the world.

Since 2008 he has developed the “quick-raise” process – creating professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays in 2-3 days, inspired by Shakespeare’s actors’ theatrical practice, fused with modern practices.

He creates playful, dynamic, emotionally connected, physically grounded productions.

Instagram: Shakespeare_On_Toast