Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor, a 1920s murder mystery presented by the (fictional) Cornley University Drama Society. The cast is eager, the set is (mostly) built, and the crew is… hopeful. But from the very first moment, chaos ensues.
Doors won't open, props go missing, cues are missed, lines are forgotten, and the set literally begins to fall apart. As everything that could possibly go wrong does, the actors must battle on against missed entrances, collapsing scenery, unconscious cast members, and an ever-crumbling sense of control—all while desperately trying to present a serious murder mystery.
A wildly funny farce full of slapstick, surprises, and technical disasters, The Play That Goes Wrong is a love letter to the theatre—and to anyone who has ever tried to put on a show.
Auditions
January 29th @ 3pm
LHS Auditorium
Show Dates
May 8th @ 7pm
May 9th @ 3pm and 7pm
A snippet from the original West End production of The Play That Goes Wrong at The Royal Variety Performance in 2015
In this hilarious theatrical disaster, actors play actors playing characters. Each performer must balance dramatic commitment with comedic timing, physical humor, and moments of pure chaos. Below is a list of roles, including both the “actor” and the character they portray within The Murder at Haversham Manor:
Chris (playing Inspector Carter)
The head of the drama society and the show’s director. Overly serious, desperate to keep the play on track. Plays the detective investigating the murder.
Strong line memorization, dry humor, must stay "in control" while everything falls apart.
Robert (playing Thomas Colleymoore)
A pompous, overconfident actor who takes himself too seriously. As Thomas, he plays the best friend of the deceased.
Needs bold stage presence, physical comedy skills, and ability to overact spectacularly.
Dennis (playing Perkins)
A well-meaning but clueless actor. Struggles with pronunciation, stage presence, and memory. As Perkins, he's the butler.
Great role for someone with a goofy charm and impeccable comedic timing.
Max (playing Cecil Haversham & Arthur the Gardener)
New to acting and overly excited to be on stage. Plays both the murder victim’s brother and the gardener—often breaks character to soak up applause.
Energetic, charming, and good at exaggerated facial expressions and reactions.
Sandra (playing Florence Colleymoore)
The leading lady. Takes herself very seriously. She plays the fiancée of the deceased and loves dramatic moments.
Needs strong comedic instincts and comfort with physical humor (including a dramatic fight scene).
Annie (Stage Manager turned Florence Understudy)
The stage manager thrown into the spotlight when Sandra is injured. Starts off nervous, grows more confident (and aggressive) as the show progresses.
Great transformation arc. Must handle shy to show-stealing levels of energy.
Trevor (Lighting & Sound Operator)
The reluctant tech crew member pulled on stage due to emergencies. Sarcastic, disinterested in theatre, and always annoyed.
Deadpan delivery, comedic timing, and able to handle chaos with attitude.
Jonathan (playing Charles Haversham)
Plays the murder victim. Must stay “dead” on stage for long stretches of time while being mishandled.
Excellent for someone with strong physical comedy skills and control over stillness and awkward movement.
Note: All roles are highly physical and rely on precise comedic timing. Actors must be comfortable with slapstick, fake falls, and ensemble cooperation.
You should prepare a comedic story or monologue of at least 60 seconds. We want to see how well you captivate an audience in a comedic role (physically and vocally!). Callbacks may be required and will be cold-readings from the script.
Make bold character choices! We are not checking to see if you can remember the words... we are trying to envision you in a role! BECOME the character! Move! React! Gesticulate!
Project and articulate. If we can't hear or understand you, we can't cast you.
From the moment you walk in, you are auditioning! Energy isn't just seen, it's felt... so walk in with confidence! Calm, steady, and friendly goes a long way. And don't apologize for your performance, even if you didn't feel like you nailed it.
BREATHE!