Casting for “Sweat” has Begun

Bryce Bresnahan

Feb. 18, 2022

On Tuesday, February 15th, Illinois Central College’s (ICC) theater began its casting process for its “Sweat” production. Auditions were held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the ICC Studio Theater room PAC 215.

Sweat, written by Lynn Nottage, is directed by Julie Peters. Peters is an adjunct faculty member who is currently teaching in the theater and psychology departments at ICC. Peters admits there are some themes and language in the production that are intended for mature audiences while expressing its direct relation to our current state in regards to politics.

“We’re really looking at some of the dynamics that are happening in the country right now, and the history of how we got to where we are in 2022,” she said.

Several students showed up to the auditions, hoping to explore their place in the realm of theater. One, Josh Phillips, is an older student at 38 and has never been in a play before, but considers himself a natural performer. Philips has experience in entertainment and has a history of being a magician. Phillips decided to finally give theater a try when he was given an extra credit opportunity for auditioning.

Phillips told us that by auditioning, he hoped for “experience, education, and understanding of how to make [himself] a better performer.”

Another student, Grace Armstrong, has loved acting since she was a kid and has been in several plays throughout her school career. Armstrong was also a member of the drama club throughout middle school and high school. Armstrong said that she looks forward to being in this play and relates to the character she auditioned for. 

“She seems like she’s struggling as well as me, money and financially wise, and she just seems like someone that came from where I come from,” Armstrong said.

Despite several students auditioning, the production is still looking for more participants. Auditions are open to ICC students as well as the public. If you’re interested in appearing in this play, you can contact director Julie Peters at julie.peters@icc.edu.