Casting Teen Performers for "Twelfth Night"

Twin sister to Sebastian. The heroine finds herself shipwrecked and stranded in a strange big city with no money and no friends. She uses her talents and wits to disguise herself as boy/messenger, find employment from the rich and powerful Oliva (who she accidentally happens to fall in love with), and become the unwitting recipient of the affections of the beautiful and popular Olivia. Cesario will be a bicycle messenger in this production

A beautiful, wealthy countess; in this production, Olivia will be re-imagined as a high-profile celebrity (pop star, screen actor, or TV personality). Olivia is in mourning for the death of her brother, and using the occasion to gain some much-needed privacy from the public eye. Olivia has vowed not to show her face outside of her household, or to accept any suitors during her time of mourning. When Cesario (Viola in disguise) brings her messages of love from Orsino.

The Duke of Illyria, Orsino will be a powerful wealthy politician/businessman. In his private life, Orsino is a man of passion and romantic sensibility, with an appreciation for sad love songs. Orsino believes his heart was forever stolen by the cold and beautiful Olivia who continues to reject his affections. By the end of the play, however, he too finds love to be as changeable as it is constant and realizes he can happily marry his former page Cesario, who is revealed to be Viola.

Viola’s twin brother. He to finds himself shipwrecked and stranded in a strange big city with no money and no friends. But uses his charm, bravery, and personality to quickly win Antonio as a steadfast friend. He is searching for news of his sister, perchance she is not drowned. Sebastian is mistaken for Cesario and ends up married to Olivia.

A member of Olivia’s household/entourage. Historically, her steward, Malvolio will be played as her business manager or personal trainer. Malvolio has a very high opinion of himself, and a very low opinion of the rest of Olivia’s entourage. He takes particular issue with Feste and with Sir Toby, considering them less than useless.

(love interest to Sir Toby). A member of Olivia’s household/entourage (personal assistant or make-up & hair stylist). She has a sharp wit, love for mischief, and serves as mastermind of a plot to have revenge on the pompous Malvolio.

(love interest to Maria). Olivia’s uncle. Loves drinking and merriment, often know to be out late at night, and to be drunken in the afternoon. He convinces Andrew that Olivia will marry him in order to have Andrew continue to pay for the drinks. Seeks revenge on Malvolio for his prudish condemnation of Toby’s merriment.

Historically Olivia’s Jester, this character should offer colorful diversion and wit to distract Olivia from her self-absorption. Based on the talents of the actor, this character might be a musician, a juggler, a balloon artist, a magician, or a comedian. Takes argument against the likes of Malvolio stating- “better a witty fool, that a foolish wit,” and loves nothing better than to match words and wit, and make fools of others.

Suitor to Olivia, drinking buddy to Sir Toby. A man of seemingly independent wealth (perhaps a trust fund), but little worldly wit, Andrew is naive, foolish, and easily swayed by Toby.

. Friend to Sebastian. Antonio saved Sebastian’s life during the shipwreck. Antonio shows a devotion to Sebastian that seems beyond the friendship of a few weeks; could be played as in love with Sebastian (with Sebastian unaware of the particular affection), or could be played by an older (than Sebastian) actor who takes a parental role in care of Sebastian.

A member of Olivia’s household/entourage (specific functions to be developed). Possibility to merge this role with Feste/Fool. Also possibility for doubling with Captain, Curio, or Valentine

Servants to Orsino. Smaller roles may be doubled