In August, Whidbey Playhouse holds auditions for two upcoming productions: “Over the River and Through the Woods” and “The Nutcracker.”

“The Nutcracker” runs weekends beginning Thanksgiving weekend. A variety of roles are available in the production for youth and adults, ages 4 to 100, for dancers and non-dancers alike. Auditions will be at the playhouse Saturday, Aug. 16, at 10:30 a.m. for intermediate- to advanced-level dancers, and adults who are interested in a non-dancing role . Auditions for beginning- to intermediate-level dancers, and any tumblers and gymnasts will be Sunday, Aug. 17, at 2 p.m. Dancers should wear dance attire, and bring their pointe shoes or ballet slippers.

Aug. 23 and 24, Whidbey Playhouse holds auditions for “ Over The River and Through The Woods.” In this play, grandparents hold key roles.

Love, laughter and lasagna are the key ingredients that make up this delightful show. The show tells the story of Nick, who visits both sets of grandparents in Hoboken every Sunday for dinner. One week, however, he has an announcement, He’s been offered a promotion in another state. This sets about a series of events planned by the grandparents to convince Nick to stay near his family.

Roles are: Nick – an energetic man between the ages of 20 – 30; He must be able to express frustration, this is the lead; Caitlin O’Hare – an Irish lass with ‘spunk’, about Nick’s age; Frank- grandfather between 60 to 80 year who came to America at the age of 14. This actor will be taught how to play “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby” on the mandolin; Aida – Frank’s wife, between 50 to 70 years of age. This woman loves to cook; Nunzio- the other grandfather between 60 to 80 years of age. He plays a mean game of “Trivial Pursuit.;

Emma – Nunzio’s wife between 50 to 70 years old. She’s the first to plot to bring Caitlin over as ‘ bait’ to keep Nick around. Everyone is expected to attend all rehearsals begining on Sept. 8, with opening night on Oct. 31. Everyone is also expected to attend all performances, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and two Sunday matinees Oct. 31 through November 15.

Scripts are available at the business office of the Playhouse on SE Midway Boulevard in Oak Harbor and can be loaned out for a week. The hours are Tuesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m. and Wednesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (360) 679-2237.