Non-Equity, Non-Union, Showcase Call for Directors and 2 Actors (18-25 & 30s-40s) : "DELAYED" (Queens Short Play Festival 2026) - Queens Short Play Festival

Project Title: DELAYED by Margaret E. Richard

Festival: Queens Short Play Festival (Winter 2026) at The Secret Theatre

Tech: Feb 11 5pm-9pm

Performance Dates: Feb 20th 8:30pm, Feb 26th 6pm, March 4th 8:30pm, March 8th 3pm (possible extension to March 11 or 12 7pm, and March 14 3pm)

Location: Secret Theatre, 10-10 44th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101



The Story: Max is standing at an empty airport gate with a one-way ticket and a heavy heart. Terrified of the leap into a new life, Max uses a flight delay as an excuse to quit—until they are confronted by Brett, a younger, uncompromising version of themselves. DELAYED is a poignant, 10-minute psychological dramedy about the cost of staying safe versus the terror of moving forward.



The Vision: The play is minimalist and highly symbolic. It requires two actors who can portray the same "soul" at different life stages as well a strong comedic improv moment. I am seeking a director who enjoys working with subtext, physical storytelling, and the nuance of memory.



Actors:

MAX (30s-40s) Any gender. An established adult burdened by the weight of their choices. Max is practical, exhausted, and ready to quit, but on the verge of making a life-changing decision.

Requirements: Must be the same gender and race as the actor playing Brett.



BRETT (18-25) Any gender. Represents Max’s past self. Energetic, bold, and idealistic.

Requirements: Must be significantly/noticeably younger than Max



Director’s Role:

~Local Leadership: As I am a playwright based in DC, I am looking for a director based in NYC to help with local casting and leading in-person rehearsals.

~Collaboration: We will collaborate via Zoom/phone for initial table reads and concept discussions.

~Tech/Performance: Assist with load-in and tech rehearsal (Feb 11) and oversee 2-3 scheduled performances.



Compensation: This is a non-paying, showcase opportunity. However, it is an excellent chance to:

~Showcase your work at the prestigious Secret Theatre in their new Long Island City space.

~Direct a piece accepted into a major NYC festival with high visibility.

~Potentially receive a high-quality video recording of the production for your professional reel.



To Audition: Please fill out the following Google Form along with a copy of your headshot, resume/portfolio and a brief monologue of your choice. Show your personality!

https://forms.gle/e1BuMe3NGrZ65mLT8



To apply as Director: Send an introductory email to mrichard1342@gmail.com with your resume, any conflicts you have between 21 January and 14 March.
Salary: Showcase