VOLUntEER FORM

JIGSAW’
PLAYWRIGHT- Ann Cole
DIRECTOR – Ann Cole
PRODUCER – Jose Warhurst

SYNOPSIS:
The play explores the theme of Alzheimer’s and the effect it has not only on the person suffering from the disease but also the people closest to them. Patricia, Harry’s wife, is struggling to cope, not only with her husband’s illness but battling her own ill health. Harry experiences flashbacks to his time serving in WW2 in the Battle of Kohima. When Patricia goes into hospital for a procedure, Jennifer (their daughter) moves in to look after Harry. This takes its toll on her relationship with her husband and difficult decisions must be faced.

CHARACTERS:

HARRY- LATE 80’s
He is suffering from Alzheimer’s. He is bewildered and fearful.  His flashbacks are from his time serving in the British Army in the Battle of Kohima, WW2” A very bloody battle/hand-to-hand fighting. Despite his condition he sometimes manages to re-visit his devilish/childish sense of humour.  He is religious, kind and loving, likes routine and can also be very stubborn, and has a never-ending love for his wife.
PATRICIA –HARRY’S WIFE – LATE 80’s
She is very loving but is in ill health herself and now finds it hard to deal with Harry’s dark moments
JENNIFER – 60’s
Harry and Patricia’s daughter. She loves her parents but is finding it hard to pleaseher husband and pacify her father.  She knows she must make a difficult decision butneeds time.

DAVID-60’s Jennifer’s husband.  A good sort but is becoming irritated with Harry’s behaviour.  He also can see his wife is getting tired of coping.
YOUNG HARRY 17+
Solder fighting in WW2 in the British Army (Battle of Kohima).  In love with his young love, Patricia, and far from home.

YOUNG PATRICIA 17+
In love with young Harry.  She is living in England during WW2 and longing for her Harry to come home.
EVELYN – any age:
A home visiting carer. A person who is doing her best to appease the situation.
MARTIN – 25+
Carer in Care Home.   He is a young man whose hobby is music. (he plays in a band).  He uses music as a therapy to lighten up Harry’s burden.
REV. McCABE – Elderly Catholic Priest (Irish accent if possible).
Usual kindly priest.

AUDITION INFORMATION
Approximate age where possible but willing to adapt is required.

DIRECTORS COMMENTS –
I am looking forward to working with everybody concerned, technicians, stage managers etc., etc. to bring this play to life.  I know how important everyone’s contributions are to a successful production, and I thank everyone in advance.  I also look forward to a cast that understands the importance of showing how an old man got to this point.  Harry’s flashback is to his time serving in WW2 and I sincerely hope that this play shows the audience that War does not end with the switching off the TV.  Plus, how it puts a heavy burden on those caring for the person suffering.  Itis primarily a love story set in the North of England, but I am sure it resonates with many people all over the world.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Thanks Ann x