Ensemble Theatre Announces
In Our Own Words :: Our Stories :: Our Voices Auditions! Episode 5!

A series Nicole Sumlin (SumMedia Productions) along with Ensemble Executive Artistic Director Celeste Cosentino started virtually during the pandemic, this series focuses on short plays that take on big themes, sharing the Black experience with Cleveland audiences. This April (2026) we will present our 5th episode of this amazing series!
Pairing a national and local playwright’s short works in repertory for a weekend of performances and engaging post show discussions!

This years series will run April 16-19th, 2026.
This years Episode includes:
Milk by Amira Danan, directed by Andrea Belser
Recipes on Used Napkins by Avery Pope, directed by Nicole Sumlin.

Come and audition for this exciting series!
When: February 9th, 2026. 6-8:00pm  
Callbacks: Will happen directly after initial auditions!:)
Where:  Noble Branch of the Heights Library.  Rooms A&B. 
2800 Noble Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH 44121
What to prepare:  Two contrasting monologues, 60-90 second each.
Actors will receive a modest stipend. There are no AEA contracts available for this episode. 
Rehearsals: March 30-April 15th. Performances: Thurs.-Sun. April 16th-19th. Thurs.-Sat. @ 7:30 & Sun. @2:00.

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT ONLINE AUDITION FORM

Character breakdowns are as follows: Recipes on Used Napkins by Avery Pope
BROTHER: Younger, grieving. Lone care taker of deceased mother. 20s.
SISTER: Older, grieving. Mother of Remy. Early 30s.

Character breakdowns are as follows: Milk by Amira Danan
AYANA: Somewhat reserved by curious; has a close relationship with her mother.
Late elementary school age girl. Teens-30s.
MAMA: Strong, sweet; loving mother of Ayana. 30s-40s. 

*If you are unable to make auditions in person please feel free to send a virtual audition as an unlisted You Tube Video.
If called back, you will not be called for the entire time. Include in audition form if you need special time considerations.

CLICK HERE FOR INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO MAKE AN UNLISTED YOU TUBE VIDEO

If you have any questions or require any accommodations, please contact us at:
auditions@ensemble-theatre.org or call 216-321-2930 (Press 2 for Staff).

We encourages actors from all of our diverse communities and experience levels to audition.
Stay Tuned for additional audition information for productions and programs throughout the season!

Ensemble Theatre Mission Statement:
Ensemble Theatre is dedicated to the responsible production of works that celebrate the human spirit drawn from the rich canon of modern American classics as well as other significant contemporary plays. Ensemble serves greater Cleveland and the Midwest region by reintroducing the classics, examining them with new eyes,
and supporting the development of new works for the American theater.

  • Education and outreach activities, engage youth and community residents through
    on site programming, residencies, and touring performances.

  • Ensemble Theatre believes that the arts are an essential and meaningful part of life. The theatre offers an important forum for stimulating and provoking thought about the issues of contemporary life, and it is a place for communal experience. Introducing future generations to the arts will enlighten them about the human condition and provide them with a resource to nourish them throughout their lives. All art, including theatre, should be a celebration of diversity and human dignity. The theatre provides the highest possible level of professionalism in all areas to nurture new talent, and to be ever mindful of the power of art to entertain and move the audience.