AUDITION NOTICE: The First Night (of the One Day of the Year) - Ad Astra Theatre Company

Title: The First Night (of the One Day of the Year)

Presented By: Ad Astra Theatre Company

Genre: Satirical Comedy / Farce

Synopsis: Adelaide, 1960. The Cold War is in full swing, Australian culture is still heavily shaped by overseas influence, and Alan Seymour’s controversial play The One Day of the Year is preparing for its world premiere. After the Adelaide Festival withdraws the production over fears that its criticism of Anzac Day may offend returned servicemen, an amateur theatre company decides to stage it instead. What follows is a fictionalised version of opening night, inspired by real events.

With cast romances, bomb threats, censorship, missing actors, ASIO operatives, bureaucratic interference, audience distractions, and a vice squad investigation all threatening the performance, the company must somehow keep the production alive. The First Night is a farcical comedy about Australian storytelling, cultural cringe, political pressure, amateur theatre, and the determination to ensure the show goes on.

Audition Date: Sunday 16 August 2026

Audition Time: 11:00am–2:00pm

Audition Location and Address: Ad Astra – Pluto, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane QLD

Audition Requirements: Prepare a comedic monologue between one and three minutes in length.

Auditionees should also be prepared to participate in a cold reading from the script.

Audition Registration: Apply by emailing creatives@adastracreativity.com

Please include:

• A recent headshot

• A current CV in Word or Google Docs format

• The role for which you are applying

Performance Dates: 5–21 November 2026 The season may be extended by one additional week.

Performance Times: Thursdays: 7:30pm, Fridays: 7:30pm, Saturdays: 2:00pm and 7:30pm

Performance Location: Ad Astra – Pluto, 210 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane QLD

Rehearsal Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays

Rehearsal Times: Mondays: 6:30pm–9:30pm, Wednesdays: 6:30pm–9:30pm, Saturdays: 11:00am–5:00pm

Rehearsal days and times may be adjusted around cast and crew availability.

Warnings:

• Mild staged intimacy for the role of Tony

• References to bomb threats, political surveillance, censorship, war commemoration, and anti-Communist investigations

• Period attitudes and language associated with 1960 Australia

Performer Age: Adult performers

Creative Team: Director: Nathaniel Currie

Other information:

• This is a co-op production.

• Cast and crew will receive a share of ticket sales after expenses.

• Callbacks will be held on Monday 18 August 2026 from 6:30pm–8:30pm.

• Enquiries and applications should be sent to creatives@adastracreativity.com.

Available Role/Character Breakdown:

Tony Playing age: Mid-20s to mid-30s

A charismatic and relatable leading character with strong stage presence. Tony is optimistic, romantic, grounded, and approachable. State-educated and down-to-earth, he represents an Australian “everyman” whose warmth and authenticity make him easy to connect with.

The role requires:

• Excellent comedic timing

• Strong physical performance skills

• The ability to balance farce with genuine emotional depth

• Confidence carrying a leading role

• Mild staged intimacy with Coral, the production’s leading lady