Plainfield Historical Society Seeks Actors, Volunteers for CemeteryWalk

Submitted by the Plainfield Historical Society:

The Plainfield Historical Society is in the midst of preparations for the upcoming CemeteryWalk 2013.  The always-popular event will be performed on Sunday, Sept. 22 at the Plainfield Township Cemetery, 15408 S. Joliet Rd.

Local writers are putting the finishing touches on original scripts, portraying five Plainfield personalities from the past.  Based on historic fact, the selected stories will “bring to life” a famed aviator, a young railroad employee, a beloved educator and physician, two sisters who were the honored guests of Plainfield’s first Homecoming, and brothers who served in the Civil War 150 years ago.

Open Auditions

Although some parts have been cast, the Plainfield Historical Society continues to seek volunteer actors from the Plainfield area to perform in the biennial production. Volunteer actors must be available for group rehearsals beginning mid-July through the performance date.

Available acting roles for CemeteryWalk 2013 include:

• a somewhat reserved/retiring woman, 30-35 years old.  Acting Role: moderate.
• a somewhat spunky woman, 30-35 years old.  Acting Role: moderate.
• an impeccably stylish “Gibson Girl” who was among Plainfield’s “high society,” 30-35 years old.  Acting Role: moderate
• a 57 year old spinster. Acting Role: easy
• a young man,18-20 years old, enthusiastic about Life and his recent marriage to “the girl of his dreams.” Acting Role: moderate.
• a young woman, 18-20 years old, who is equally enthusiastic about her recent marriage and all of the possibilities Life holds ahead. Acting Role: moderate.
• Civil War Soldier, 24 years old. Acting Role: easy.
• Civil War Soldier, 20 years old. Acting Role: easy.
• Civil War Soldier, 17-18 years old. Acting Role: easy.

Other roles may become available.  Volunteers may audition as an alternate or understudy.

Auditions will begin at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 26 at the Plainfield United Methodist Church (Illinois and Chicago Streets indowntown Plainfield). Enter through the north set of double doors facing Illinois Street. 

Rehearsals are scheduled at the convenience of individual casts.  Not only does performing offer a chance for residents of all ages to learn some of Plainfield’s colorful history, but it is a great opportunity to enjoy camaraderie with new friends and neighbors.

Female Vocalists Sought

Additionally, the society is seeking several vocally-talented young women, ages 15-20, who will be cast as members of a local, 19th century musical family.  Vocalists must be willing to learn songs of the 1880-1900 period, sing to violin and/or fiddle accompaniment, and be able to perform for 30-45 minutes at least three times throughout the day of the performance.  The vocalists have no script to learn.  The musicians will be providing entertainment throughout the day of the performances.  Vocalists will be auditioned at a later date; interested singers should call 815-436-6466 to be included in the audition schedule.

If Acting Is Not Your Thing…

If acting is not “in your blood” or you have a fear of performing in front of a live audience, the Plainfield Historical Society also seeks volunteer tour guides (18 years or older).  Attired in period outfits, tour guides assist guests by coordinating and leading visitors throughout the cemetery between performances.  Members representing local religious, charitable or service organizations may volunteer as a group, if desired. Tour guides are required to attend a few mandatory orientation meetings on-site prior to the event.

Other volunteers are needed to assist with costuming/fittings, advance ticket sales, set-up, and gatekeeping on the day of the event.

For additional information, call 815-436-4073 or 815-436-6466.