Students, faculty, and staff at Notre Dame, Saint Mary's College, and Holy Cross College are invited to audition for These Shining Lives by Melanie Marnich, directed by Logan Schlitt '27, a mainstage theatrical production of Notre Dame's Department of Film, Television, and Theatre
Show Dates: November 18–20 and 22, 2026
About the play
The play These Shining Lives tells the powerful and poignant true story of four women who worked at the Radium Dial Company in the 1920s, painting clock faces with radium-laced paint, unaware of the deadly effects of radiation. As their health deteriorates, the women begin a courageous fight for justice, battling both corporate greed and a society that dismisses their voices. This emotional drama highlights the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity, shedding light on an important chapter in American labor history. These Shining Lives is a tribute to the unsung heroes who risked everything for change.
How to audition
Step 1: Please read the audition packet and complete the form. The packet form must be completed and brought to your audition or emailed in advance to Logan Schlitt (lschlitt@nd.edu).
In-person auditions will be held September 13 from 12pm to 4pm, and September 14 from 6pm to 10pm.
There is also an option to submit a video audition, due by September 14 at 11:59pm.
Callbacks will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 6 - 10 pm & Thursday, September 17, 6 - 10 pm. You will be given 24 hours' notice if needed for callbacks.
About the auditions
Any student of any major is welcome and encouraged to audition for FTT shows. No prior experience in theatre needed! Auditions are also open to students, faculty, and staff at Notre Dame, Saint Mary's College, and Holy Cross College. FTT has pledged a commitment to concrete actions that expose and dismantle white supremacy, including (but not limited to) planning anti-racist theatre seasons. We are committed to providing artistic opportunities for our Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) students. We welcome students with disabilities and students of all gender identities. We are committed to making the audition and rehearsal process accessible to all interested students. For questions about auditions and/or equity and accessibility, contact us at theatre@nd.edu.
Questions?
Email us at theatre@nd.edu.