Type

Theatre

Location

West Sussex

Content

BIG MAN. LITTLE MAN.
A new play by Mark Harrington

BIG MAN. LITTLE MAN. is a hard-hitting, emotionally charged new play exploring teenage vulnerability, male victimhood, SEND masculinity, and the life-changing impact of a teacher who refuses to give up.
We are seeking committed, emotionally intelligent actors to take part in a professionally staged reading in London, aimed at introducing the play to producers and theatre makers.


THE TABLE READING
The table reading will take place at Southwark Playhouse (Borough) on Friday 10th April, offering actors the opportunity to:
• Work on a new, original piece with strong contemporary relevance
• Explore complex, psychologically rich characters
• Be part of a project aimed at full professional production
• Collaborate closely with the writer during development
• Perform in front of industry professionals and theatre makers
This reading is a crucial step in the life of the play and will be presented in a focused, professional rehearsal environment.


CASTING NOTES (GUIDE)
We are casting 6 actors.
Roles include teenagers and adults. Actors must be comfortable engaging with challenging material, including themes of trauma, abuse, SEND experiences, and violence.
• Tony (16) – A bright, volatile boy with SEND; emotionally demanding role
• Matt Turner (30s–40s) – A compassionate but flawed drama teacher
• Zoe (17) – Intelligent, guarded, and manipulative; complex emotional range
• Additional roles include school staff, police, and supporting characters (multi-rolling)
Age-appropriate casting encouraged. We welcome actors with lived SEND experience and/or strong interest in socially engaged theatre.

WHY GET INVOLVED?
This is not just a reading—it’s a chance to be part of the early life of a bold new play that confronts underrepresented stories with honesty and care. BIG MAN. LITTLE MAN. asks difficult questions and offers no easy answers, but it places empathy, accountability, and human connection at its core.
Actors involved will be integral collaborators in shaping the future of the play as it moves toward full production.

Dates

Friday 10th April 2026 Southwark Playhouse (Borough)
Zoom Call Meeting TBC

Apply By

17:00 - 19th March 2026

Roles

Tony Martin

Male Only 18 - 25

Matt Turner

Male Only 22 - 40

Zoe Taylor

Female Only 18 - 25

Dev Jones

Male Only 18 - 25

PC Palmer / Mr Brown

Male Only 40 - 60

Lisa Martin

Female Only 35 - 50

Roles Details

Title

PC Palmer / Mr Brown

Content

PC CHRISTOPHER PALMER / MR BROWN

Playing age: Mid-30s (Palmer) / 60s (Brown)
Gender: Male
Height Over 6ft

A multi-rolling part requiring clear vocal and physical distinction. PC Palmer is a calm, authoritative police officer whose investigation frames the play; in later development, this role is offstage voice-only, demanding strong vocal control and restraint. Mr Brown is the rigid, traditional headteacher — articulate, resistant to change, and blind to the harm of his outdated views. Distinct accents and energies essential.

Salary

£180 For the Table Reading and Zoom Meeting

Gender

Male Only

Age

40 - 60