Ah, Wilderness! - What is it and why should you audition?
*A note from Director Shamaya Sutton*
Playwright Eugene O’Neill (1888–1953) is widely regarded as the “father of American
drama,” credited with transforming U.S. theater from 19th-century melodrama into a serious
literary art form.
This production will mark the first time The Acting Company has ever produced one of
O’Neill’s works — and it’s a special one.
Ah, Wilderness! is O’Neill’s only comedy, often considered a precursor to the American family
sitcom. Its themes, structure, and character types can be seen echoed in classic shows like Leave
It to Beaver, The Dick Van Dyke Show and even more modern series like 7th Heaven.
This production aims to honor the play’s impeccable writing while also exploring the deeper,
more complex emotional and historical context behind its creation.
The directive team is seeking a collaborative ensemble of dedicated actors who are passionate
about storytelling and appreciate a heartfelt, wholesome style of comedy. Talented newcomers
eager to gain experience will also be warmly welcome.
This show has a bit of history. Alongside David Wheeler, emeritus professor of theater
and film, we originally began staging this production in 2020. We were just eight days from
opening when we were forced to “postpone” — we didn’t know then that “postponement”
would last six years!
That said, this will not be a recreation of that original production. This is a fresh interpretation
with a new vision — though anyone who was part of the original team would gladly be
welcomed back.
About the Show:
Set in a small New England town on the Fourth of July, Ah, Wilderness! follows the Miller
family as they navigate love, rebellion and growing up at the turn of the 20th century. At the
center is Richard Miller, an idealistic teenager whose romantic missteps and youthful defiance
test the patience of his warm but principled parents. Blending humor with heartfelt moments, the
play offers a nostalgic and compassionate look at family life, first love and the sometimes painful
path to maturity.
Audition Details:
● Please come prepared for cold readings from the script and improv exercises
● Actors who prepare a 30-second to 1-minute monologue will receive bonus points
Roles:
(Ages are approximate and may be adjusted based on turnout)
The Miller Family
● Nat Miller: Owner of the local newspaper, in his late forties/fifties; warm, wise, and
understanding head of the household.
● Essie Miller: Nat’s wife, roughly 50, who manages the busy household with a
bustling, "mother-of-a-family."
● Richard Miller: The second son, almost 17. A dramatic poet and radical, he is
passionately in love with Muriel.
● Arthur Miller: The oldest son, 19, a student at Yale.
● Mildred Miller: The 15-year-old daughter; vivacious and fond of teasing her older
brothers.
● Tommy Miller: The youngest child, 11, filled with energy.
Extended Family and Others
● Sid Davis: Essie’s 45-year-old brother, a charming but alcoholic gambler.
● Lily Miller: Nat’s unmarried, patient sister who works as a schoolteacher and loves Sid.
● Muriel McComber: Richard’s love interest, nearly 16, daughter of David.
● David McComber: Muriel’s prudish father and a local businessman.
● Wint Selby: A Yale classmate of Arthur, 19, who acts as a "hell-raiser."
● Belle: A 20-year-old prostitute.
● Norah: The Millers' Irish maid.
● Bartender: runs the bar, small but memorable role
AUDITIONS
June 1 & 2 at 6 p.m.
Callbacks (if needed): June 3 at 6 p.m.
REHEARSALS
Mondays–Thursdays, 6:30–9 p.m.
(Not all actors called every night)
Possible Friday rehearsals added after June 21
TECH WEEK
July 11–16
PERFORMANCES
July 17 – Aug. 9
Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
Sundays at 2 p.m.