Pork Filled Productions is proud to announce the world premiere of A HAND OF TALONS, a new play by Seattle playwright Maggie Lee at Theatre Off Jackson, running April 29 to May 21, 2016 and directed by Amy Poisson. This dark crime family drama explores yet another facet of the steampunk-inspired universe of our 2015 production THE TUMBLEWEED ZEPHYR and our 2013 production THE CLOCKWORK PROFESSOR.
For generations, the Yao clan has been the most powerful crime syndicate in the city, ruling the seedy underbelly of New Providence with an iron fist. But as the family empire threatens to crumble, Wilhelmina Yao must do whatever it takes to win at in a high-stakes game of power and betrayal. Descend into the hazy underground gambling den of the Fortuna Mews to explore the dark world of steampunk noir in this thrilling third installment of the New Providence series.
Come Audition for A Hand of Talons
We STRONGLY encourage all ethnicities and actors of color to audition for any role that interests you! A HAND OF TALONS is set in an alternate universe, so please note that the character names do not reflect any preset racial preferences, including among the family members.
Audition/Interview Dates:
Sunday, January 10, starting at 4:30pm
Callbacks:
Monday, January 11, 6:30pm to 10pm
Please prepare two short contrasting monologues, dramatic and comedic, of any style.
CHARACTERS:
WILHELMINA YAO
FEMALE, plays early 20s. Owner of the Fortuna Mews gambling club. Cheerful and spirited, she has few cares or responsibilities as the youngest daughter of the Yao family. But as the family starts to crumble, she develops a surprising strength and steely resolve that transforms her into something darker and more cunning. Sister to ANDERS and DELPHINE.
DELPHINE YAO
FEMALE, plays late 20s to early 30s. She is the eldest daughter, and acting head of the Yao clan. Uncompromising and stern, she will do whatever it takes to save face and keep the clan afloat. Sister to WILHELMINA and ANDERS.
ANDERS YAO
MALE, plays late 20s. As the middle son of the Yao family, he constantly tries to prove his worth as a leader but never quite succeeds. He has big dreams of taking over the clan, but finds himself driven to desperation by his circumstances. Brother to WILHELMINA and DELPHINE.
BERNADETTE “BERNIE” MARTILLO
FEMALE, plays 40s. A games dealer at the Fortuna Mews and former Yao clan member. Bitter and sardonic, she scorns all Yaos except Wilhelmina, who has her undying loyalty.
LAWRENCE HOWELL
MALE, plays 20s. A friend and unrequited admirer of Wilhelmina. A small-time criminal and petty crook, he has the good-natured air of a scoundrel about him.
LIN CURTIS
FEMALE, plays 20s to 30s. First Lieutenant and bodyguard to Delphine. Gruff, loyal, and deadly, she has pledged her life to serving the Yao clan. Stage combat experience preferred.
KENZO YAO
MALE, plays late 20s to early 30s. He is an emissary from the Eastern Yaos from the Old Country overseas, sent to assess the viability of the New Providence clan. Disarmingly handsome and charming, he hides a well-concealed sense of dangerous purpose.
PRESTON HODGE
MALE, plays 40s to 50s. An unlucky gambler who frequents the Fortuna Mews. Worried, nervous, and desperately optimistic.
