Social Climbers

By Roger Hall
Directed by Trudy Dalziel

Auditions: Saturday 20 June 2026
Callbacks: Sunday 21 June 2026
Rehearsals: Begin mid-July; Tuesday, Thursday and Sundays with extra rehearsals closer to opening
Performance Dates: Wednesday 23 September - Saturday 3 October 2026
Packout: Sunday 4 October 2026

A group of female teachers, along with one reluctantly accompanying daughter, set off on a weekend bushwalking trip in the mountains to escape it all. But when torrential rain and a washed-out bridge leave them stranded in a remote hut for three days, tensions begin to rise.

The womens’ carefully constructed social facades begin to crumble as they challenge each other, strip away professional distance, and grow into a bond of support, understanding, and friendship.This insightful and witty situation comedy explores truth, consequences, and unexpected revelations through humour, honesty, and emotional depth.

The play delves into the complexities of relationships, resilience, and the bonds of female friendship. With rich, relatable roles for women and a compelling mix of comedy and heartfelt moments, this is a wonderful opportunity to bring dynamic, authentic female characters to life on stage.

We’ll be looking to cast women who will enjoy the creative process and work collaboratively. Strong on-stage chemistry and the ability to connect authentically with others will be key.

There will be a degree of physical comedy and physicality involved (i.e. getting on and off bunk beds). There will also be minimal intimacy, such as characters hugging and comforting each other.

Please note, as this is a community theatre production, all roles (cast and crew) are unpaid/voluntary.

Roles

Maxine (The Drama Queen): 50s-60’s. Outgoing, flamboyant, and boisterous. While she can be snide and opinionated, her character undergoes a convincing emotional journey.

Kath (The Lovable Older Teacher): 50s-60’s. The “old girl” of the group. Loveable, grounded, and no-nonsense.

Emily (The Eternal Doormat): 40’s-50’s. A put-upon woman who’s been a “doormat” her whole life.

Sinead (The Stroppy Daughter): Mid 20’s. Emily’s daughter. Often immature and eye rolling while harboring a major “bombshell” revelation for her mother.

Susan (The Sensitive Idealist): Late 30s-50s Initially the cheerful “Pollyanna” of the group until the pressure-cooker environment reveals that her supposedly perfect world is actually falling apart.

Annie (The Frazzled School Counsellor): 30s-50s A calming, soothing presence throughout the play who uncovers the often-forgotten hardships and emotional weight of her profession.

Auditions will be held in small groups at the Gryphon Theatre, 22 Ghuznee Street, Te Aro, exploring some of the scenes from the play. Please let us know if you need any assistance or accessibility accommodations.

To book an audition slot please complete the audition form or, if you have questions about the production, please contact auditions@stagecraft.co.nz