Feeling the weight of loss and longing for connection? That's the heart of My Joy Is Heavy, a new production coming to New York Theatre Workshop. This show promises a deeply moving experience, exploring the unexpected joys found amidst profound sorrow. Let's dive into the details!
What's Happening?
My Joy Is Heavy is holding Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs) in New York City on December 16, 2025. This is your chance to shine if you're an Equity actor!
Where and When?
- Location: Actors' Equity New York Audition Center, 165 W 46th St, 16th Fl, New York, NY 10036
- Audition Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025
- Time: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (with a lunch break from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)
The Nitty-Gritty: What You Need to Know
- Contract: Off Broadway
- Pay: A minimum of $1229 per week (Cat. CC)
- Seeking: Equity actors for various roles (details below)
- Preparation: Prepare a short song to showcase your voice. A piano accompanist will be provided, but self-accompanied selections are welcome. Bring your headshot and resume stapled together.
Who's Behind the Scenes?
- Artistic Director: Patricia McGregor
- Producer: Audra Labrosse
- Casting Director in Residence: Claire Yenson, CSA
- Director: Rachel Chavkin
- Created and Performed by: The Bengsons
- Choreography: Steph Paul
Important Dates to Note
- First Rehearsal: January 26, 2026
- First Performance: February 25, 2026
- Latest Closing: April 12, 2026
The Roles
- ABIGAIL: CAST. She/her. Singer/songwriter/theater maker. Married to Shaun.
- SHAUN: CAST. He/him. singer/songwriter/theater maker. Married to Abigail.
- MUSICIAN ONE: A strong singer who plays keyboard and accordion at a high level. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
- MUSICIAN TWO: A strong singer who plays guitar and bass at a high level. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
- MUSICIAN THREE: A strong singer who plays the drums at a high level and has experience with live looping. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
- MUSICIAN FOUR: A strong singer who plays the trumpet at a high level. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
- MUSICIAN FIVE: A strong singer who plays the tuba and trombone at a high level. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
- MUSICIAN SIX: A strong singer who plays tenor saxophone, bass saxophone, flute, and clarinet at a high level. Present, compassionate, enthusiastic.
What's the Story About?
My Joy Is Heavy delves into the life of a young family in rural Vermont, grappling with the loss of a pregnancy. The play explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the surprising moments of joy and humor that can emerge from grief.
Equity and Inclusion
Equity's contracts prohibit discrimination, and they are committed to diversity, encouraging performers of all backgrounds to audition. Remember to bring your Equity Membership card!
But here's where it gets controversial... The casting for Abigail and Shaun is already complete. Does this limit the scope of the auditions? What do you think about the practice of pre-casting roles?
And this is the part most people miss... The importance of the musicians in this production. With such a strong emphasis on music, it seems like the soundscape will be a crucial element of the play.
What are your thoughts? Do you think this production sounds promising? Share your opinions in the comments below! Would you audition for this? What part of the play's description resonates with you the most?
