WALDOBORO — The Waldo Theatre will be staging the comedy Homer Bound on the last weekend of September, and first weekend of October, 2023. Written by actress, playwright, teacher, and comedian Karmo Sanders (best known here in Maine for her years playing the role of “the Marden’s Lady”), the play takes a fun, funny and often sentimental look at a colorful cast of local characters preparing for a wedding on a small island off the Maine coast.

Open auditions are scheduled for Sunday afternoon, June 11, from 3 to 6 p.m., and Wednesday evening, June 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. Members of the local community are invited to attend either session to audition for the three male and three female characters, ranging in age from their 20’s to their 60’s. The play will be directed by Susan Hodder, Executive Director at The Waldo.

“We’re so fortunate to be bringing Karmo’s delightfully comical story to our Midcoast stage,” said Hodder, in a news release. “Every one of the characters will feel familiar to people here on the coast. The writing is fast, funny and full of Maine humor. People are excited to see that we’re bringing community theatre back to The Waldo. Our recent production of Deployed brought out 34 actors to read for 7 roles. We’re hoping for a similar turnout for Homer Bound.”

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to see the Homer cast of characters come to life again, especially in a venue as special and beautiful as The Waldo,” said Sanders. “I like to think the story is timeless, and I enjoy the fact that so many audience members will recognize themselves and their families in our wacky ensemble.”

The play will be produced by Waldoboro resident and self-professed “theatre kid” George Bates. In addition to on-stage roles, there are openings for all other members of the production team: stage manager, stage crew, and anyone interested in working on sets, lights, costumes, props, sound, and publicity. Interested players can attend either audition to meet Hodder and Sanders, and to sign up.

“Hodder’s vision for community theatre is a collaborative one that exemplifies community and utilizes all the resources of the beautifully equipped and recently renovated Waldo Theatre,” said the release. “Everyone who participates will have a voice in the running of the group and a part to play in mounting each production, whether on-stage or backstage.”

Details about the roles and downloadable audition pieces can be found on the Waldo Theatre website at thewaldotheatre.org/audition.

The Waldo brings live music, theater, movies, dance, and educational programs to the Midcoast Maine community year-round. Offerings range from local, community theater to nationally and internationally known artist performances. As a community-based organization, The Waldo’s focus is to unify and strengthen the region through performing arts, outreach, broad-based educational programs, and collaboration with other local non-profits. More at: thewaldotheatre.org