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Set in Terre Haute, Indiana , The Nerd presents the story of Willum Cubbert, an unassuming young architect, who is landlord to friends Tansy and Axel. The three of them are good friends. Axel and Tansy are present when Willum, during his birthday party, becomes host to unexpected houseguest Rick Steadman, who had saved Willum's life in Vietnam.
Although they've never met, Willum has promised Rick that he could come to him for help at any time. Warnock Waldgrave, (Willum's client for whom he is designing a hotel), shows up to the party along with his wife and young son. Soon, Rick shows up. His awkward manner and inappropriate behavior throw the occasion into shambles. Rick decides to move in, and Willum feels that he can't say no, even when Rick begins to destroy his professional relationship with Mr. Waldgrave. Eventually at his wit's end, Axel devises a plan to get rid of Rick, which Willum decides to take a chance on. |
| Director: | Cyndi Saye |
| Presented by: | Company of Rowlett Performers |
| Audition Start: | Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 6:30-9:30 PM |
| Audition End: | |
| Audition Details: | There will be a cold reading from the script. Directors will provide sides at audition. Video auditions should be sent to cyndi@saye.org by December 8, 2026@ 7pm. |
| Audition Location: | Plaza Theatre
521 W State Street Garland, TX, 75040 |
| Callback Dates: | Wednesday, December 9, 2026 (if needed) |
| Rehearsal Dates: | February 22, 2027 - April 8, 2027 |
| Performance Dates: | April 9, 2027 - April 18, 2027 |
| To Sign Up: | Sign Up to Audition |
| Requirements: | |
| Roles Available: |
WILLUM CUBBERT (Male-presenting, 30s) The Architect with a Heart of Gold: Kind and intelligent (though something of a pushover), Willum struggles with a lack of assertiveness. His character serves as the linchpin around which the comedic chaos unfolds.
TANSY McGINNIS (Female-presenting, 20s–30s) The Woman Who Does it All: Tansy McGinnis, a smart and successful “weather girl”, plays a crucial role in the drama of The Nerd. She is dealing with an upcoming move that will take her away from Willum. Idealistic and upbeat, but we also find her taking care of everyone around her. AXEL HAMMOND (Male-presenting, 30s–40s) The Sarcastic Sidekick: Willum’s best friend. A sardonic theatre critic who’s a bit pretentious, especially when he’s had a drink or two, but with impeccable timing and a sharp wit. Observant, acerbic, and loyal, Axel provides comic relief and the occasional voice of reason. RICK STEADMAN (Male-presenting, 30s-40s) (Must be able to do multiple voices) The Nerd: The man who once saved Willum’s life in Vietnam—and is now his biggest headache. Oblivious, socially inept, pathologically well-meaning, oblivious to insults and lacking manners, Rick adds an element of chaos to the otherwise mundane lives of the characters. Rick’s quirks become a source of frustration and amusement for those around him—and ultimately, a catalyst for change. WARNOCK WALDGRAVE (Male-presenting, 40s–60s) The Cantankerous Businessman: A volatile, overbearing businessman and Willum’s client. Loud, quick-tempered, and demanding, but not malicious—just wound too tight. His lack of a smile and brash demeanor contrast with the more amicable characters surrounding him. CLELIA WALDGRAVE (Female-presenting, 30s-40s) The High-Strung Wife and Mom: Warnock’s wife. Polite and outwardly all-together (think 50’s housewife) we soon find out that she is high-strung and she channels her frustrations into odd habits (notably breaking things when nervous). A comic foil to her husband’s bluster. THOR WALDGRAVE (Male-presenting, 8–10) The Out-of-Control Troublemaker: Their son. A mischievous, spoiled child who says exactly what he thinks. Often the spark that sets off the adults’ chaos. Axel calls him, the “poster child for Planned Parenthood,” and it’s clear to see why. Thor’s antics, often involving hiding in closets or bedrooms, contribute to the farcical nature of the play. |
| Compensation: | |
| Originally Posted: | 2026-06-02 |