Cocoa Village Playhouse to Hold Auditions for ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ Aug. 9-10

tale of murder, mayhem and eccentric family

BREVARD COUNTY • COCOA, FLORIDA — The Cocoa Village Playhouse, located at 300 Brevard Ave in Cocoa, will be casting for roles in the stage production ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ at auditions on August 9 and 10.

A Delightfully Dark Comedy with a Killer Cast of Characters. Join the cast for this wickedly funny tale of murder, mayhem, and eccentric family ties. Arsenic and Old Lace is a golden-age gem that calls for strong comedic timing, character work, and a willingness to embrace the absurd.

CVP is seeking performers who can bring these quirky roles to life with personality, precision, and playful commitment. Whether you’re a seasoned actor or new to the stage, this is a fantastic opportunity to dive into one of the most beloved comedies in American theatre.

Audition Format
Cold readings from the script. No preparation necessary, but familiarity with the play is encouraged.

Location: The Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, 300 Brevard Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922
Production Dates: October 31 – November 2, 2025 (One Weekend Only)

See the Welcome to Auditions Information Flyer

In-Person Auditions

● Doors open no earlier than 30 minutes prior to a scheduled audition.
● Saturday and Sunday, August 9 and 10 at 2 p.m.
● Ages 17 and up. All ethnicities encouraged to audition.

Performers interested in auditioning in person can fill out the live audition application and bring it completed to the audition.

Virtual Auditions
See  Audition Information for more details related to submitting virtually, including how to send your vocal audition.

Virtual Audition Application must be received by Sunday, August 10 at 12 p.m. Submissions received after this deadline will not be considered.

Side 1 – Mortimer

Side 2 – Abby

Side 3 – Elaine

Side 4 – Teddy

Character Breakdown

● Abby Brewster (Female, 50s–70s)
One of the two sweet and charitable Brewster sisters who have taken it upon themselves to “relieve” lonely old men of their suffering. Warm and nurturing, with a matter-of-fact attitude about murder.

● Martha Brewster (Female, 50s–70s)
The slightly more timid of the two sisters, but equally committed to their unusual acts of charity. Gentle, cheerful, and a perfect partner-in-crime to Abby.

● Mortimer Brewster (Male, mid 20s – early 50s)
The nephew of Abby and Martha. A dramatic theatre critic who gets pulled into the chaos when he discovers what his aunts have been up to. Quick-witted, frantic, and grounded in reality (mostly).

● Elaine Harper (Female, 20s–30s)
Mortimer’s intelligent and spirited fiancée. Daughter of the local minister. She’s drawn to Mortimer’s dramatic side but doesn’t shy away from speaking her mind.

● Teddy Brewster (Male, 30s–60s)
Mortimer’s eccentric brother who believes he is Theodore Roosevelt. Energetic, loud, and committed to his delusion. Must be physically and vocally bold.

● Jonathan Brewster (Male, 30s–60s)
Mortimer’s menacing brother and the true villain of the play. A violent criminal with a surgically altered face and a chilling presence. Should have a strong, intimidating stage presence.

● Dr. Einstein (Male, 40s–60s)
Jonathan’s nervous, alcoholic plastic surgeon accomplice. European accent preferred. Comic and slightly tragic, he’s been dragged into Jonathan’s madness.

● Rev. Dr. Harper (Male, 50s–70s)
Elaine’s conservative father and the local minister. Protective, dignified, and proper.

● Lieutenant Rooney (Male or Female, 30s–60s)
The tough, no-nonsense police officer investigating the strange goings-on. Needs strong comic chops and presence.

● Officer O’Hara (Male, 20s–50s)
An enthusiastic but dim-witted beat cop who dreams of writing plays. A fun, character role with lots of comedic potential.

● Mr. Gibbs (Male, 60s–80s)
A prospective roomer who narrowly avoids becoming the next victim. Small role but a great moment.

● Mr. Witherspoon (Male, 50s–70s)
Head of the Happy Dale Sanitarium. Calm, polite, and unaware of the insanity around him. Smaller role, key to the resolution.

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