The Reservoir

Three performers wanted for an imaginative, ensemble-based production at BATS Theatre, Wellington. Set in rural New Zealand in 1948, The Reservoir follows three young siblings, whose adventure up a winding creek becomes a journey of discovery, wonder and imagination. Key dates and information Auditions : Saturday 7th November 2026, 10am–4pm Callbacks : Sunday 8th November, 11am–3pm Audition venue : 3 Queens Wharf, Wellington Casting decisions by : 14 November Workshops 28 November – 13 December 2026 Rehearsals January – March 2027 Performances 2–6 March 2027 Performance venue : The Stage, BATS Theatre, Kent Terrace, Wellington Directors : Rob Ormsby & Sarah Holswich Audition times will be assigned by email. Please arrive five minutes before your allocated time. Applications: Please complete the audition application form by Friday 6 November 2026. Enquiries: email revolve.aotearoa@gmail.com or message Rob on 021 767 607. About the production The Reservoir is an adaptation of Janet Frame's short story, set against the backdrop of New Zealand's 1948 polio epidemic, when schools were closed and children found themselves with unexpected freedom. The play explores childhood adventure, curiosity and imagination, alongside the hopes and fears of growing up in a world that children don't always fully understand. Written for three actors, the production combines storytelling, physical theatre and imaginative play, supported by lighting, sound and visual design. Our aim is to explore the magic of live theatre, where ordinary objects and shared imagination can create extraordinary experiences. This is a collaborative production, and the actors will play an important part in developing the characters and discovering how we tell the story together. What we're looking for: The Reservoir is first and foremost an ensemble piece. We're looking for three performers who enjoy working collaboratively and are willing to explore different approaches to storytelling. We'd love to work with actors who: - Bring enthusiasm, commitment and generosity to an ensemble. - Enjoy physical theatre, improvisation and imaginative play. - Are comfortable speaking directly to an audience. - Can move between characters and adapt to changes in pace and mood. - Are open to experimenting with movement, music, sound and different performance styles. Our workshop process will give the cast an opportunity to contribute to the development of the production and its theatrical language. The roles All three roles will be played by adult performers aged 18 or over. Mary Playing age: approximately 15 Mary is the eldest sibling, and it is through her memories that we experience much of the story. She is beginning to feel the pull of the wider world but still carries a sense of responsibility for her younger siblings, making sure they don't stray too far from the rules set by their parents. Jack Playing age: approximately 12 Also plays Father The middle child, Jack is full of adventure and bravado. He likes to play the tough guy and rarely admits when he's frightened. Beneath the bravado, however, he is caring and protective of the others. Betsy Playing age: approximately 9 Also plays Mother The youngest sibling, Betsy is mostly concerned with her immediate world. She can be brave, cheeky and mischievous when supported by the others, but is easily frightened when left to her own devices. Her imagination can sometimes get the better of her. Please read through all three roles. You are welcome to indicate more than one preference on your audition form. PLEASE NOTE : Applying to audition via the link below will require you to create a free account with Theatra. This is a locally developed app we are using to manage the production. If you do not wish to register in Theatra, please contact us via email.

Auditions will take place in small groups, allowing us to see how performers work both individually and together. Short monologue Please prepare one or two monologues from the audition material, which can be downloaded below and will also be emailed to you once you have completed your application. We'd love to see a range of characters and a willingness to play. You don't need to be word-perfect, but we'd encourage you to be familiar enough with the material to work without holding a script, if possible. Come ready to play! Alongside your monologue, we'll explore some group exercises, improvisation and ensemble work. We're equally interested in how you respond to and work with others, as we are in your individual performance. Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. What to expect on the day Your group audition will last approximately 40 minutes. You'll have an opportunity to present your chosen monologues and work with other performers. We may ask you to revisit some material with different intentions or explore an alternative approach to a character. There may also be some children's games, theatre games, improvisation, trust exercises and simple choreographed movement. Nothing too tricky, we promise! Some activities may involve working in close physical proximity to other performers. Please let us know beforehand if you have any concerns or access requirements so we can plan accordingly.