Auditions: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
By August Wilson
Directed by Keith L. Davis
Audition Dates
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Thursday, October 22, 2026
6:00–8:00 PM
Auditions will be held at The Historic Masonic Theatre 514 Hancock Street in Downtown New Bern
Who owns the music? Who controls the voice?
RiverTowne Players invites you to audition for August Wilson's powerful American classic, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, directed by Keith L. Davis.
We are seeking performers of diverse ethnicities, backgrounds, and experiences to bring this unforgettable story and its complex characters to life.
Whether you're an experienced performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, we encourage you to come share your talent, explore these characters, and be part of a story about ambition, identity, and the struggle to be heard.
One recording session. A room full of truths.
Set against the backdrop of the blues in 1920s Chicago, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom follows legendary blues singer Ma Rainey and her musicians as they gather for a recording session.
As tensions rise between the performers and the recording executives, the play explores artistic freedom, ambition, racial injustice, and the power of music. Beneath the humor and conflicts are deeply human questions about dignity, opportunity, and who gets to control an artist's voice.
August Wilson's powerful drama brings these competing dreams and struggles together in an unforgettable story.
Your Story. Your Voice. Your Stage.
View Roles, Audition Information & Sign Up
Join the Production Team
Read the Script
AUGUST WILSON'S MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.