Auditions for Martin McDonagh's "The Pillowman," Parkland Theatre's first production of the 2008-2009 season, will be held on Sunday, August 24 from 1pm to 3pm at the Parkland Theatre.  Callbacks will be held on Monday, August 25, beginning at 7pm.

"The Pillowman" centers on a writer in an unnamed totalitarian state who is being interrogated about the gruesome content of his short stories and their similarities to a series of child murders.  The result is an urgent work of theatrical bravura and an inflinching examination of the very nature and purpose of art and storytelling.

Director Randi Collins Hard will be casting 5 men (character ages 20-50), 1 woman (character age 20-30), and 1 girl (character age 8-11).  The audition will consist of readings from the script and some improvisation.  Audition readings are available online at www.parkland.edu/theatre.  Auditions are open to everyone including community members, Parkland College students, and U of I students.  Parkland Theatre encourages diversity.  Performance dates are October 1, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 and 12.  Rehearsals will begin shortly after casting.  Questions should be directed to 217.351.2529.