Austin, August 1, 2025
News Summary
The Zachary Scott Theatre Center in Austin has announced auditions for Agatha Christie’s ‘Murder on the Orient Express.’ Scheduled for August 13, this Equity Principal Audition seeks talented actors to portray the classic characters. Selected actors will earn a minimum of $816 weekly as rehearsals kick off in late December and performances begin in January. The theatre emphasizes inclusivity in its casting.
Austin
The Zachary Scott Theatre Center in Austin has officially announced auditions for the highly anticipated production of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express.” Scheduled for August 13, 2025, this audition is an Equity Principal Audition (EPA) seeking talented actors to bring this classic story to life.
Audition Details
The auditions will take place from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Zach Theatre’s Rehearsal Studios, located at 1426 Toomey Rd, Austin, TX 78704. Actors interested in auditioning must email the theatre to schedule an appointment. There is also an option for video submissions for those unable to attend in person, which must follow specific guidelines to ensure quality.
Compensation and Roles
Selected actors will receive a minimum contract of $816 weekly, based on the 2024-25 rates according to the League of Resident Theatres (LORT). The production is seeking Equity actors for multiple roles, including the cunning detective Hercule Poirot and a host of colorful characters traveling on the luxurious train.
Preparation and Audition Instructions
Actors are required to prepare specific sides for the character(s) they are auditioning for, available through a shared link. Those auditioning for the role of Daisy may either choose from the provided sides or present a short personal monologue. Videos submitted for consideration must have a clean background, with minimal ambient noise, and also include a headshot and resume.
Production Timeline
Rehearsals for the production will commence on December 30, 2025, with performances beginning on January 21, 2026. The show will run until March 1, 2026, featuring 6-7 performances each week, held from Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 PM, with matinees on weekends at 2:30 PM.
Character Breakdown
The character breakdown for “Murder on the Orient Express” includes:
- Hercule Poirot – a world-famous detective
- Monsieur Bouc – the director of the line
- Mary Debenham – a mysterious governess
- Hector Macqueen – an American businessman
- Michel the Conductor / Head Waiter – offers a glimpse into the train’s inner workings
- Princess Natalya Dragomiroff – a Russian royal
- Greta Ohlsson – a Swedish nurse
- Countess Elena Andrewnyi – a wealthy passenger
- Mrs. Helen Hubbard – an outspoken traveler
- Colonel James Arbuthnot / Samuel Ratchett – a military man with a dark past
- Daisy Armstrong – the pivotal character in the murder mystery
Equity Commitment
The theatre reiterates its commitment to diversity and inclusion, emphasizing that actors of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and abilities are encouraged to audition. Please note that an Equity monitor will not be provided; the producer will oversee the audition process.
More Information
For further details about auditions and the upcoming production, interested parties can find more information on the Zach Theatre website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What date are auditions for “Murder on the Orient Express”?
Auditions are scheduled for August 13, 2025.
What time do auditions start?
Auditions will run from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with a break from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Can I submit a video audition if I cannot attend in person?
Yes, video submissions are allowed and must follow specific guidelines provided by the theatre.
What is the pay for successful actors?
The weekly minimum contract is $816, based on LORT standards.
When do rehearsals start for the production?
Rehearsals will begin on December 30, 2025.
When is the opening night performance?
The opening night is set for January 21, 2026.
Key Features of Auditions
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Audition Date | August 13, 2025 |
| Time | 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Location | Zach Theatre, 1426 Toomey Rd, Austin, TX |
| Minimum Pay | $816 weekly |
| Rehearsal Start Date | December 30, 2025 |
| Performance Dates | January 21, 2026 – March 1, 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Playbill: Murder on the Orient Express Austin Auditions
- Wikipedia: Murder on the Orient Express
- CBS Austin: Waitress at Zach Theater
- Google Search: Zach Theater
- Broadway World: Zach Theatre 2025-26 Season
- Google Scholar: Zach Theater
- Statesman: Jersey Boys at Zach Theatre
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zach Theater
- CultureMap Austin: Zach Theater Rebrand
- Google News: Zach Theater
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