The Shark is Broken
By Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon
Directed by Amy Rickett
Performances: May 7-10 & 14-17, 2026 in the Dart Studio Black Box
Auditions: February  22 & 23, 2026 at 7:00PM
Callbacks: On an invitation only basis, February 24, 2026

A witty, behind-the-scenes comedy about the making of Jaws. Trapped on a boat while the mechanical shark continually breaks down, actors Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss, and Roy Scheider grapple with artistic ego, clashing personalities, and the absurdity of Hollywood. Set in 1974 on the deck of the Orca, The Shark is Broken blends fact and fiction, humor and humanity.

When: 
Open auditions will be held February 22-23, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Callbacks take place on an invitation-only basis: February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM

Performances and Rehearsal Information:
Performances for The Shark is Broken will be May 7-17, 2026 on the Black Box stage.
Rehearsals start February 24-27 – We have black-out dates in February and April due to other shows. We will rehearse Sunday-Thursdays until we get into tech week: May 3-6, 2026.

Character Descriptions: 
All roles are male-presenting; strong comic timing required. British and American dialects needed where specified. Be prepared for cold readings from the script.

Robert Shaw (Age 45–55, British): Brilliant, mercurial, and self-destructive. Sharp wit, with a rough edge. Known for his gravitas and volatile presence.

Richard Dreyfuss (Age 25–35, American): Young, neurotic, ambitious, and insecure. Brimming with nervous energy and quick retorts.

Roy Scheider (Age 40–50, American): Grounded, pragmatic, and even-tempered. The peacemaker between Shaw and Dreyfuss. Dry humor with understated charm.

Add’l Roles – Spielberg, Camera operator, Ass’t Director (These characters will be off-stage or pre-recorded voice-overs.)

Contact:
Amy Rickett | [email protected] | 517-927-0577