The Alchemy Theatre to Hold Auditions For LYDIA By Octavio Solis

The Alchemy Theatre is now accepting submissions for Lydia, a searing and poetic drama by acclaimed Mexican-American playwright Octavio Solis. Directed by Michael Cooper, Lydia will be performed in-the-round at The Whisenhunt at Zach Theater in Austin from October 17 - 26, 2025.

Set in 1970s El Paso, Lydia explores themes of immigration, disability, identity, and family
secrets as a Mexican-American household welcomes a mysterious undocumented caretaker
into their lives-with explosive results. This intimate production will offer local actors the
opportunity to engage with complex roles in a culturally resonant and emotionally charged story.

Audition Details

• Submission Deadline: Saturday, August 10, 2025
• Callback Dates: Saturday & Sunday, August 23-24, 2025
• Rehearsals Begin: September 15, 2025 (evenings and weekends)
• Tech Week: October 10-16
• Performances: October 17 - 26 (8 performances over 2 weeks)

To Submit:
Please email the following to Michael Cooper, Director at: mcooper@thealchemytheatre.org

• Headshot (PDF)
• Resume (PDF)
• Role(s) you are interested in
• Valid contact information

Seeking Non-Equity Austin-Based Talent for the Following Roles:

• LYDIA - a mysterious undocumented maid with a powerful intuitive connection to Ceci
• CECI - a 17-year-old girl in a semi-vegetative state who expresses herself through poetic monologues
• MISHA - a sensitive and artistic teenage brother
• RENE - the older brother hiding guilt and struggling with his identity
• ROSA - the overwhelmed mother
• CLAUDIO - the brooding father
• ALVARO - a cousin and Vietnam veteran working for Border Patrol

Note: Lydia includes Spanish-language dialogue, Mexican-American cultural references, and mature themes including trauma, desire, and family dysfunction. Spanish fluency is a plus but not required for all roles. All roles are paid.