Casting Call: Gush by Jess Brodie

We are open to notes of interest for the lead role in the upcoming production of GUSH by Jess Brodie, directed by Becky Hope-Palmer.

We understand the importance of visibility and representation onstage and we want to reflect the diversity of the population in our work and therefore would encourage actors to get in touch regardless of ethnicity, race, sexuality, physical ability, faith or economic background.

The character breakdown is as follows:

ALLY

Scottish, early-to-mid 30s, heavily pregnant. A volatile, contradictory and somewhat desperate character who has wanted to be a mother her whole life. Lovingly married to Kev, with a fulfilling job and a nice house, everything looks like how she pictured when she was growing up. And yet, she longs for something more, even if she can’t quite put her finger on what that is. She rarely voices her feelings and she’s used to meeting other people’s expectations; as a result, she has a tumultuous inner world. There’s a sense she’s never quite got to know herself and truly explore her sexuality. Before she steps into the most selfless role of her life, it feels like now or never.

UK Theatre/Equity Standard Contract for Subsidised Repertory Theatre (MRSL Grade 2)

Show overview:

After a lifetime of putting others first, a woman on the brink of motherhood takes her destiny into her own hands.

Ally’s ready to be a mum. She’s done the antenatal classes, cleaned up her diet, and even forgone her beloved tea to avoid the caffeine. So why does something inside her still feel off?

In the final days of pregnancy, Ally is determined to take control of her life while it’s still hers. As she steps into the unknown, she’s forced to confront who she truly is, and what she might lose – or find – when the baby arrives.

Exploring self-identity, sexuality and the tension between compromise and sacrifice, GUSH considers what it means to discover what we want and dare to ask for it.

Written by Jess Brodie (nominee for the Playwrights’ Studio, Scotland St Andrews Playwriting Award 2024) and directed by Becky Hope-Palmer (12 Days of Christmas – Birmingham Rep, Woman Walking – Sylvian Productions, Hotdog – A Play, A Pie & A Pint), GUSH is a funny and frank exploration of the barriers that prevent women from owning their desires—and what happens when choice is no longer an option.

A Traverse Theatre Company production.

Key dates:

Rehearsals Start: Mon 23 March 2026

Previews: Fri 10 & Sat 11 April 2026

Press / Opening: Tue 14 April 2026

Final Performance: Sat 25 April 2026

Please send a CV, Spotlight link (if applicable) and a short cover letter outlining your professional experience (no more than half a page of A4) and why you are right for the part to: casting@traverse.co.uk

We will get back to all actors who have auditioned with a yes / no as soon as possible after the audition period. Zoom auditions or self-tapes may also be possible if in person attendance is not viable.

Any performers invited to audition will be supported with any access needs required.