Off-Broadway Auditions Announced for ‘The Exhibitionist’
Novel York City actors are being sought for an off-Broadway production of “The Exhibitionist,” a one-person play that explores themes of artistic ambition and self-worth. Auditions, designated as an Equity Principal Audition (EPA), are scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Pearl Studios in Manhattan. The production, spearheaded by My Right Your Left LLC and Occasional Drawl, is seeking an Equity actor to serve as the offstage understudy for the role of Justin, the play’s central character. The audition process underscores the ongoing demand for live theatre in New York City and provides opportunities for professional actors to showcase their talents.
“The Exhibitionist,” written by James Hindman and directed by Andrew Russell, centers on Justin, an intern at the fictional McMillon Museum of Art. The play delves into the complexities of artistic identity as Justin navigates his role at the museum although simultaneously competing in an art competition that could define his career. The synopsis describes the work as a “love letter to artists” and a poignant exploration of the “terror of being invisible and the courage it takes to keep believing your voice matters.” The play originally starred Jeff Hiller, who won a 2025 Emmy Award and now serves as the Executive Producer of the production. The production is slated to run from May 4th to June 28th, 2026, at the DR2 Theater, with the possibility of an extension.
Audition Details and Requirements
The audition will take place on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a lunch break scheduled from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Actors are required to prepare a short, contemporary comedic monologue – under two minutes in length – that aligns with the style and tone of the play. Headshots and resumes, securely stapled together, must be brought to the audition. The audition will be held in Studio 306 at Pearl Studios (500), located at 500 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10018-6504. An Equity Monitor will be present to ensure adherence to Equity procedures.
The contract offered is an Off-Broadway agreement with a minimum weekly salary of $1000 (Category A). This aligns with standard Equity contracts for off-Broadway productions, providing a baseline level of compensation for performers. Rehearsals are expected to initiate around April 6, 2026, according to the casting call. The production team includes Casting Directors Benton Whitley and Peter Dunn of Whitley Theatrical, with Whitley expected to be present at the audition. The casting call specifically notes that the role of Justin has already been cast and they are solely seeking an understudy.
Character Breakdown and Seeking
The production is seeking an actor of any gender or ethnicity, aged between mid-30s and mid-40s, to fill the role of Justin’s understudy. The character description emphasizes the require for someone “confident and incredibly funny with an effervescent theatricality,” capable of both commanding attention and evoking vulnerability. The role requires an actor who can embody the character’s charm and convey a sense of emotional depth. The casting call highlights the importance of finding an understudy who can seamlessly step into the role if needed, maintaining the play’s energy and emotional resonance.
Equity Procedures and Commitment to Diversity
The audition is being held under Equity procedures, meaning it is governed by the rules and regulations established by Actors’ Equity Association, the union for professional stage actors and stage managers. Actors’ Equity Association is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the theatre industry. The casting call explicitly encourages performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, and ages, as well as performers with disabilities, to attend the audition. Equity’s contracts also prohibit discrimination, ensuring a fair and equitable audition process for all applicants. Actors are reminded to bring their Equity Membership cards to the audition.
The Creative Team Behind ‘The Exhibitionist’
The production boasts a talented creative team. Jeff Hiller, the 2025 Emmy Award-winning actor who originally performed the role of Justin, is serving as the Executive Producer. Occasional Drawl is the producing theatre company, providing the organizational and financial backing for the production. Andrew Russell is directing the play, responsible for bringing the script to life on stage. James Hindman penned the script, crafting the narrative and dialogue that drive the story. Benton Whitley and Peter Dunn of Whitley Theatrical are the Casting Directors, tasked with finding the perfect actors to fill the roles. This collaborative team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the production, promising a high-quality theatrical experience.
The DR2 Theater, the venue for “The Exhibitionist,” is a well-respected off-Broadway space known for hosting a variety of theatrical productions. Pearl Studios, the location of the audition, is a popular rehearsal and audition space for performing arts professionals in New York City. The combination of a strong creative team, a compelling script, and a suitable venue suggests a promising future for this new off-Broadway production.
The production’s exploration of artistic ambition and the search for validation resonates with contemporary audiences. The play’s synopsis suggests a blend of humor and pathos, offering a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of the artistic life. The fact that the role of Justin has already been cast indicates a strong foundation for the production, and the search for an understudy ensures that the play will be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
Actors interested in auditioning for the role of Justin’s understudy should prepare accordingly and attend the audition on March 19, 2026. The opportunity to work on an off-Broadway production with a talented creative team is a valuable experience for any aspiring actor. The production’s commitment to diversity and inclusion further enhances its appeal, creating a welcoming environment for performers from all backgrounds.
As the opening date of May 4th, 2026, approaches, the production team will continue to finalize preparations and build anticipation for the premiere of “The Exhibitionist.” The play’s potential for success hinges on the talent and dedication of the cast and crew, as well as the support of the New York City theatre community. Further updates on the production, including ticket information and performance schedules, will be announced in the coming weeks.
The next key date for this production is the start of rehearsals around April 6, 2026. Keep an eye on industry listings and the production’s social media channels for further announcements. What are your thoughts on the importance of understudies in live theatre? Share your comments below and let us know!