When Judy sets out to become the perfect 1950s housewife, the Martins are living the dream. Johnny has a beautiful wife, a beautiful home, and a promotion on the horizon. Judy is revelling in the joys of domesticity; making cakes, cocktails and homemade marmalade. But cracks are starting to appear in this beautiful façade which threatens their domestic bliss as the realities of living in the 21st Century forces its way into their bubble of idealism. Whether it’s in the form of Johnny’s new (young, female) boss, the contemporary cost of living on a ‘50s budget and one income or Judy’s critical mother, the present insists on being dealt with.

In Laura Wade’s smart and engaging Home, I’m Darling, nostalgia isn’t not only what it used to be, it collides with present-day realities. This witty, highly original and thought-provoking comedy takes a look at the complexity of women’s choices and the dangers of nostalgia through distinctly rose-coloured glasses. Full of playful, breezy charm, it also packs a considerable punch. The 2019 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, Home, I’m Darling is full of big laughs, big skirts and big questions – how can live simply and yet cope with the pressures of modern life? What do we lose in the present when we try to live in the past? And can you get really stains out of a shirt with just lemon juice and baking soda?

Characters: 4F/2M

Judy – Lead Role (Playing Age 35-45)
The central character of the play and on stage for the duration of the show. Judy gave up a successful corporate career and is trying desperately throughout the play to keep up the façade she has built of being the perfect 1950’s housewife and living with the realities of life in the 2000’s. The actor will needs to understand and portray this struggle. For this role, the actress also needs to be prepared to dance Jive and there is an intimate scene with the actor playing her husband. Johnny.

Johnny – Main Role (Playing Age 35-45)
An estate agent, by day and Judy’s dutiful and well cared for husband at night. Charming and personable, he too has adopted the fifties lifestyle and clothing but also struggles with the challenges of living and old-fashioned lifestyle at home while trying to climb the corporate ladder at work. On stage for a significant proportion of the play and also needs to be an average dancer, as he has a short dance scene, with Judy.

Fran – Medium Role (Playing age 25-40)
A good friend and confidant to Judy. An open and outgoing personality. She shares Judy’s interest in the 50’s lifestyle and loves the dresses but is more pragmatic and doesn’t take it to the same extremes as Judy, holding down a full time job as a stylist. On stage for a reasonable amount of the play.

Sylvia – Medium Role (Playing Age 65+)
Judy’s mother, who lived in the 50’s and fought for equal rights in the 60’s and 70’s, she is horrified by Judy’s choice to become a housewife. Forthright, modern thinking and young at heart. She has two brilliant scenes including a fabulous scene stealing monologue. On stage, visiting Judy, for short periods throughout the play.

Alex – Small Role (Playing Age late 20s to 30s)
Johnny’s boss at the estate agency firm. A modern, young professional and ambitious woman she is seen as somewhat opposite to Judy in both her appearance and attitudes. On stage a few times during play.

Marcus – Small but important role (Playing age 30/40s)
Fran’s husband and friends with Johnny and Judy. A businessman. Confident and self-assured. Bordering on slightly arrogant. An interesting role who has, and is only too willing to share, some controversial views.

If you are keen to audition, please email Tracey on stageismyjam@gmail.com