Spark Theatre Company is seeking performers for its 2023-2024 touring show program. These productions occasionally have public performances but primarily travel throughout NE Ohio to schools as assemblies for approximately 15 performances. Actors do not need to be available EVERY day throughout the touring timeline, but should have general availability during school days and/or flexibility in their schedules. Actors receive a stipend starting at $500 based on role, and are reimbursed for travel to schools at the IRS rate of $0.62/mile. Anansi and the Middle Passage By Frank Higgins Anansi, the celebrated spider from African folklore, tells the story of an African mother and daughter who are kidnapped and sold into slavery. With each story, Anansi springs to life along with the story characters for action-packed, light-hearted adventures. When mother and daughter arrive in America as slaves, they carry with them the folk tales and wisdom of their homeland — stories that make their lives bearable and give them meaning. This wonderfully theatrical children’s play offers a unique perspective, imbuing the dismal tale of the slave trade with the bright, spirited folklore of African culture. Rehearsals Begin: Sept. 25th around actor availability in Olmsted Falls, OH Touring Period: October 17th-November 10th, 2023 (approx. 14 show total within this time frame) to elementary schools throughout NE Ohio. Roles: *Shontay/Bush Deer/Hare*- (female identifying, BIPOC actor, adult to play a child) seeking a versatile actor to play a young girl who is kidnapped into slavery, a young deer with a big heart, and a smart hare. *Mother/Wife/Vulture*- (female identifying, BIPOC actor) seeking a versatile actor to play Shontay’s mother, who is kidnapped into slavery, a vulture, and other minor characters in the story. Those interested should email Rachael at sparktheatre4youth@gmail.com. -- Rachael Endrizzi Producing Artistic Director Spark Theatre Company *www.SparkTheatre4Youth.org <http://www.SparkTheatre4Youth.org>* 440-707-6887