Show: THE MALTESE FALCON
Theater: UpStage Artists
Theater Website: https://www.upstageartists.com/auditions
Theater Phone:
Start date of auditions: 06/22/2026
THE MALTESE FALCON
Based on the Novel by Dashiell Hammett Adapted by John Cusumano
In this classic noir mystery, private detective Sam Spade becomes entangled in a dangerous web of lies, greed, and murder after a mysterious woman hires him to help locate a priceless black statuette known as the Maltese Falcon. As bodies begin to pile up and a cast of suspicious characters close in, Spade must navigate deception, betrayal, and shifting alliances to uncover the truth. Filled with sharp dialogue, intrigue, and suspense, The Maltese Falcon remains one of the defining detective stories of all time.
AUDITIONS ARE JUNE 22 and 23 AT 7 PM
Auditions will also consist of short, cold readings from the script.
ROLES AVAILABLE:
Sam Spade – A sharp, cynical private detective in his 30s or 40s who trusts very few people and always seems one step ahead. Tough, intelligent, and morally complicated, Spade becomes deeply entangled in the hunt for the mysterious Maltese Falcon.
Miss Wonderly – A mysterious and captivating woman who first brings the case to Sam Spade. Intelligent and manipulative, she is not always truthful about her motives or identity.
The Fatman – A wealthy, larger-than-life criminal mastermind obsessed with obtaining the priceless Maltese Falcon. Charming and dangerous, he uses money and influence to get what he wants.
Mr. Cairo – A nervous yet cunning man with refined manners and questionable loyalties. He is another player in the race for the Falcon and constantly shifts between ally and adversary.
Police Lieutenant Dundy – A seasoned police detective who distrusts Sam Spade and believes he may know more than he admits. Dundy is blunt, persistent, and determined to solve the growing number of crimes.
Effie – Sam Spade’s loyal and capable secretary. Practical, warm, and trustworthy, she provides support and stability amid the chaos surrounding the investigation.
Detective Polhaus – Dundy’s police partner. More easy going than Dundy, Polhaus often acts as a calmer presence during tense interrogations and investigations.
Iva – The emotionally volatile widow of Sam Spade’s former business partner. Her complicated relationship with Sam adds tension and personal stakes to the story.
Archer/Wilmer (“The Kid”) – A dual-role character. Archer is Sam’s detective partner whose death sets the mystery in motion. Wilmer, nicknamed “The Kid,” is a young, hot-tempered gunman working for the Fatman, eager to prove himself and quick to anger.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS EMAIL THE DIRECTOR, JOHN CUSUMANO AT JOHN.CUSUMANO@UPSTAGEARTISTS.COM
Location:
All auditions, rehearsals, and performances take place at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 11416 Cedar Lane, Beltsville, MD 20705.
Rehearsals:
Rehearsals begin Monday, July 27 and occur on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 7-9 pm.
Performance Dates:
Show Dates are September 18-27, 2026
