Auditions for The Whale by Samuel D. Hunter will take place on Wednesday 28th January, for our September 2026 production, directed by Leigh Steedman.
This is a powerful, intimate and emotionally rich piece of theatre, offering deeply rewarding roles and the chance to be part of a thoughtful, challenging production. The play explores grief, forgiveness, faith and human connection, and was adapted into the Oscar-winning film starring Brendan Fraser.
🎭 Auditions will be friendly and supportive, with pieces read from the script on the night — no preparation required.
📘 If you missed the read-through, don’t worry — please get in touch and we’ll happily get you a copy of the script.
👉 Rehearsals: Tuesdays and Thursdays, June–September
🎟️ Performance dates: 7th–12th September 2026
🎭 Roles Available
Charlie – A reclusive, severely overweight man attempting to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter. A demanding, deeply moving role requiring emotional honesty and sensitivity — the role that earned Brendan Fraser the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Ellie – Charlie’s sharp, angry teenage daughter. Intelligent, damaged, and fiercely defensive, with moments of vulnerability beneath the surface.
Liz – Charlie’s friend and carer; pragmatic, compassionate, and fiercely loyal.
Thomas – A young missionary, earnest and conflicted, struggling with his faith and purpose.
Mary – Charlie’s ex-wife; guarded, complex, and still deeply affected by the past.
🎭 Open to members and non-members
💬 If you’re interested but unable to attend on the night, please do get in touch.
Whether you’re looking for a significant acting challenge or a chance to be part of an exceptional piece of theatre, we’d love to see you there.
Also check out other Arts events in Exeter, Theatre events in Exeter, Contests in Exeter.
