The Details of Upcoming Auditions for November 29, 2025
The play follows the men of the Wellington Battalion during the Gallipoli campaign, as they capture (and tragically then saw lost) the heights of Chunuk Bair in August 1915. It’s a story of leadership, courage, loss, and the Kiwi spirit It explores the cost of war and the birth of national identity.
Colonel William Connolly (mid 40s – 50s)
Commanding officer of the Wellington Battalion. A career soldier, proud, disciplined, and deeply patriotic. Connolly is determined to achieve glory for New Zealand on Chunuk Bair, but his belief in duty and British command eventually collides with the harsh realities of war. A man of conviction and tragic dignity; embodies the tension between honour and futility.
Lieutenant Harkness (late 20s – 30s)
An idealistic young officer, intelligent and articulate. He believes in the moral purpose of the campaign and is loyal to Connolly, but as the situation deteriorates he becomes disillusioned and begins to question the value of sacrifice. Emotionally open and observant — often the moral voice of the play.
Sergeant Frank Smith (30s – 40s)
A battle-hardened veteran and natural leader of men. Practical, tough, and dryly humorous. Frank knows the cost of war and serves as the backbone of the battalion, holding the younger soldiers together. Represents the New Zealand working-class soldier — resourceful, loyal, and quietly heroic.
Porky (20s – 30s)
A heavy-set, earthy soldier with a rough sense of humour and a big heart. His nickname reflects both his physicality and his love of a good meal. Offers comic relief but reveals deep compassion and bravery under fire. Often the first to lighten the mood, even in chaos.
Scruffy (early 20s)
Young, eager, and inexperienced. Quick-witted but somewhat naïve about the true nature of war. His youthful enthusiasm and fear are a mirror of the thousands of boys sent to Gallipoli. His arc often ends in loss or shattered innocence.
Holy (20s – 30s)
A soldier with a strong religious streak — carries a Bible and interprets events through faith. Idealistic and often clashes with more cynical comrades. His spirituality brings moments of poignancy and tension as he struggles to reconcile belief with horror.
Smiler (20s – 30s)
Nicknamed for his constant grin, Smiler masks fear and uncertainty with jokes and optimism. Friendly and talkative, he bonds easily with others. His humour becomes increasingly desperate as the reality of the situation sets in.
Mac (30s – 40s)
A pragmatic, no-nonsense soldier. Represents the seasoned working-man mentality — direct, occasionally confrontational, but deeply loyal to his mates. Often questions authority and doesn’t hide his opinions about British command.
Bassett (20s – 30s)
A signalman or communications soldier — often seen relaying orders. Analytical and methodical, but ultimately caught in the chaos of miscommunication that defines the Gallipoli tragedy. Can be played with a sense of frustration and futility.
Otaki George (20s – 30s, Māori)
A proud Māori soldier, fiercely brave and strongly connected to his culture. Provides a vital perspective on loyalty, identity, and colonial service. His mana and humour make him a standout presence — represents the contribution and sacrifice of Māori in the New Zealand forces.
Fred (late teens – early 20s)
One of the youngest in the group. Innocent, curious, and sometimes overwhelmed. His journey encapsulates the tragic loss of youth and potential that defines the play. A good role for a sensitive, emotionally open actor.
Nobby / Dusty (20s – 30s)
Typical Kiwi soldiers — blunt, good-humoured, and loyal. Nobby is more outspoken; Dusty more reflective. They serve as the everymen of the battalion — the chorus of ordinary voices caught in extraordinary circumstances.
