Clark State Community College will hold auditions for the Theatre Arts Program’s fall production of King Lear. Auditions are open to the public and will be held September 5 and 6 at 7 p.m. at the Clark State Performing Arts Center, Turner Studio Theatre, 300 South Fountain Avenue, Springfield.

“There are 12 roles available,” said Josh Katawick, director of the theatre production. “Some of the smaller roles will be double and triple cast. This means those actors will be playing multiple parts—two or three characters through the show.”

Katawick said King Lear was chosen because of the infinite cosmos and themes that are explored in the play. “In my opinion, King Lear is Shakespeare’s masterwork,” he said. “The political and ethical undertones of the play are evident enough without doing anything to highlight them.”

King Lear is a tale of an aging king who liquidates his kingdom to his three daughters through proof of their love for him. When his most devoted daughter, Cordelia, withholds her affection, Lear is enraged. King Lear is a story that examines love and power, honesty and jealousy, and madness.

Actors should prepare a one-minute, memorized, classical monologue for their audition. A headshot and resume are also encouraged.

Rehearsals for King Lear will begin Monday, September 11 at 7 p.m. with design presentations and a first read through of the play. Rehearsals will be held weekday evenings, Monday through Thursday, with the weekend prior to opening being longer technical rehearsals.

Performances of King Lear will be held October 27, 28, November 3 and 4 at 7 p.m. There will be a 2 p.m. matinee on October 29 and November 5.