Welch Works Entertainment is now accepting video submissions for the upcoming Industry Reading of Backyard Blessing—a new play to be presented on Friday, April 18, 2025, in New York City.

SEEKING:

Union and Non-Union musical theatre performers. 

All roles are BIPOC.

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:

MAMA RUBY – A sharp-tongued, deeply spiritual matriarch recovering from illness. Tough yet loving, she knows how to put people in their place—without ever cursing.

TYRELL – Mama Ruby’s grown son. Avoiding responsibility and burdened by unresolved issues, Tyrell begins to confront his fears and mature over the course of the play.

TANYA – Mama Ruby’s responsible, Type-A daughter who often holds the family together. She’s the peacemaker, though she secretly longs for someone else to take the lead.

DEACONESS CLARA – A fiery, gossip-loving church lady with a heart of gold. Her faith is rivaled only by her flair for drama, which often stirs things up.

PASTOR JAMES – A young, enthusiastic preacher trying to minister to the family through long-winded sermons. Well-meaning but often awkward in his delivery.

MISS EDNA – The neighborhood “auntie” with a knack for unsolicited advice. She means well, but tends to stir the pot.

KEVIN – Tyrell’s childhood best friend. Laid-back and funny, he brings comic relief, but also surprising wisdom when it matters most.

UNCLE LEROY – A lovable, unpredictable old-school relative with outrageous stories and a sketchy past. Loyal and full of life, he adds humor and energy to every scene.

COMMITMENT:

This is a 5-hour commitment on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

An invite-only industry reading will take place at 3:30 PM.

Further details will be provided to selected candidates.

COMPENSATION:

This is a non-paid opportunity. However, food and a small travel stipend will be provided to all participating actors.

TO SUBMIT:
Please email your self-tape submission to: welchworksentertainment@gmail.com
Include the following materials:

• Acting reel

• Singing reel

• Headshot

• Resume

We will contact only those selected to move forward, but we sincerely appreciate every submission and will do our best to review all materials.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 (End of Day)