AUDITION NOTICE: Inspector Drake and the Black Widow - BATS Theatre Company
- May 1
- 2 min read
Updated: May 10
Title: Inspector Drake and the Black Widow
Presented By: BATS Theatre Company Inc
Genre: British Farce / Comedy / Whodunnit Parody
Synopsis: Set in the 1930s, Inspector Drake and the Black Widow is a fast-paced British farce by David Tristram. When John Johnson is found murdered — stabbed in the back while wearing a dress — Sergeant Plod calls in the infamous Inspector Drake to solve the case. But with suspiciously similar-looking women, an escaped Black Widow spider, triplets born two months apart, and a lustful widow in the mix, the investigation quickly spirals into chaos. A parody of classic murder mysteries, this comedy blends Inspector Clouseau, Cluedo, and The Mousetrap with visual gags, adult innuendo, cross-dressing, and plenty of am-dram absurdity.
Audition Date: Wednesday 6 May 2026
Audition Time: 7:30pm
Audition Location and Address: Old Committee Room, rear of Buderim War Memorial Hall, Church Street, Buderim
Audition Requirements: Auditions will be open and will consist of readings from the play.
Audition Registration: No booking specified. For questions or script requests, contact Director Julian White at production.batstheatre@gmail.com
Performance Dates: 25 September – 4 October 2026
Performance Location: Buderim War Memorial Hall, Buderim
Rehearsal Dates: From 28 July 2026
Rehearsal Times: Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays
Rehearsal Location: Buderim War Memorial Hall, Buderim
Performer Age: 18+
Available Roles/Character Breakdown:
Sergeant Plod — Large role with many lines and significant physical activity. Enthusiastic and well-meaning, but not always competent.
Inspector Drake — Very large role with even more lines and strong physical dexterity required. Must carry the investigation and comedy.
Female Performer / Multi-role Track — Plays eight roles: The Maid, Lady Devonshire, Doctor Foster, Amy Mallard, Miss Marple, Lolita (a triplet), the Zoo Lady, and others as required. Major role requiring fast costume, wig, and vocal changes.
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