The Play That Goes Wrong Character Descriptions

The Play That Goes Wrong
Character Descriptions

CHRIS, directing and starring as Inspector Carter in "The Murder at Haversham Manor," faces the biggest night of their career with a mix of excitement and intense pressure. A perfectionist, every laugh from the audience tests Chris's resolve, reflecting the high stakes of the performance. Despite their rigid demeanor and British accent, the evening's chaos exposes Chris's vulnerability. However, their determination to lead the company to success never falters. This role demands an actor capable of showing both Chris's meticulous control and moments of doubt, all while performing on an 7' platform without railing, highlighting the balance Chris must maintain throughout the play.

ROBERT as Thomas Colleymoore in "The Murder at Haversham Manor," aspires to greatness with a Richard Burton-esque ambition but remains cheerfully clueless on stage. This ever-optimistic 'best friend' character is embroiled in a leadership rivalry with Chris, yet blissfully unaware of the chaos around him. This physically demanding role requires an actor with strong vocal abilities and a British accent, who can convey earnestness and optimism while performing on an 7' platform without railing. Robert's naivety amidst ambition makes for a compelling, multifaceted portrayal.

MAX stepping into his first roles as Cecil Haversham and Arthur the Gardener in "The Murder at Haversham Manor," brings a refreshing honesty and earnestness to the stage. With no prior acting experience, his sincere attempts to follow directions exactly shine, especially when he directly engages the audience after eliciting laughter, breaking the fourth wall. This role demands an actor who can showcase Max's genuine effort and spontaneity, along with a British accent, in a performance that's both physically engaging and filled with unintentional humor. Max's ability to connect with the audience despite his inexperience creates a uniquely charming character.

DENNIS portraying Perkins the butler in the play, steps into acting with the hope of finding friendship. New to the stage, he struggles with lines and pronunciation, and audience laughter often feels like a spotlight on his mistakes, not a cheer for his efforts. This role demands an actor who can capture Dennis's desire for perfection and connection, despite being slightly oblivious to the theatrical world around him. With a British accent, the actor must convey Dennis's earnest attempts to fit in and his sensitivity to audience reactions, all while being comfortable performing on an 7' platform without railing. Dennis's journey is one of vulnerability, effort, and the pursuit of belonging in the unpredictable world of theater.

TREVOR, the lighting and sound operator for the play, unexpectedly finds himself in the spotlight due to unforeseen chaos. Comfortable behind the scenes, he's suddenly required to act, briefly taking on the role of Florence. This shift from technician to actor, paired with his American accent, emphasizes Trevor's adaptability and the contrast between his technical expertise and the demands of performing onstage. This role needs an actor capable of portraying Trevor's reluctant transition with a blend of authenticity and humor.

JONATHAN, portraying Charles Haversham in the Cornley Drama Society's production, embodies a James Bond-esque charisma, blending suave charm with a strong physical presence. Tasked with driving the narrative, he approaches his role with enthusiasm but feels the weight of each mistake deeply. This role demands an actor skilled in balancing a British accent with the physical demands of the character, including performing on an 7' platform and executing a safely choreographed roll off the edge during a key scene. Jonathan's passion for the performance and his commitment to the physicality of his role make him a pivotal figure in moving the story forward, while his reaction to onstage errors adds depth to his character.

SANDRA, taking the stage as Florence Colleymoore, combines her vaulting ambition with a pronounced vanity, always with an eye on Hollywood. Having always secured lead roles, she's convinced of her unmatched talent within the company and struggles with adaptability when faced with unexpected changes. This role calls for an actor adept at portraying Sandra's intricate blend of ambition and sizable ego, all while maintaining a British accent and meeting the physical demands of the performance. Sandra's willingness to push limits, yet keeping strategic relations with those beneficial to her career, adds layers to her character, making it essential for the actor to navigate her complex personality and physical prowess on stage.

ANNIE, as the company's stage manager, embarks on the most transformative journey in the production. Initially working tirelessly behind the scenes to solve problems, she is unexpectedly cast into the spotlight as Florence, starting with a book in hand and a heart full of terror. However, as the show unfolds, Annie discovers a newfound comfort and love for acting, a passion so strong she's determined to fight for her place on stage. This physically demanding role requires an actor with an American accent who can authentically portray Annie's shift from backstage diligence to a fierce dedication to performance, capturing her evolution from fear to a determined embrace of her unexpected role.

STAGE CREW portray the Cornley Drama Society stage crew.