CT Murder Mystery Auditions Underway

February, 2023, Hartford, CT –Family and friends had long told the audacious Donald Rondini that he should audition for AspenDream Productions™ the professional theater company that has performed in over 72 cities in New England for the past 26 years and raised nearly two million dollars for charities and fundraisers. But he was too busy with other things. Rondini never really considered a career in acting. He did a lot of Community Theater and was busy thinking of retirement. But one weekend he decided he would take a gamble and try out. It changed his life.

The Branford resident traveled to Harwinton where he joined actors and singers from all over Connecticut who wanted to audition for a spot in the continually sold-out interactive comedy wedding and murder mystery shows. His name was called. He leapt into action. He dressed to ‘kill’.

“I really wanted the lead character of the head mob guy, Uncle Franco, but everyone wanted that role. They told me they would consider me for Father O’Flasky, a comedic type,” Rondini said. “The producer said they liked my Irish accent but they didn’t think I had enough experience to do the leading character”. Now it is 20 years later and I am still with AspenDream Productions. In an interesting twist of fate, I eventually got the lead role of Uncle Franco”.

Night after night, Rondini portrays the hilarious infamous character of Uncle Franco. His performance is magnetic as the show’s title character. Not only did Rondini get his dream role but he became an enormous hit throughout New England for his unique and hilarious portrayal of this Archie Bunker-type mob character. “At this point, “I don’t think there’s anyone better than Don Rondini for the lead but now we are looking for a second cast”, said Janice Luise, Producer and Executive Director of AspenDream Productions™.

AspenDream Productions™ seeks submissions for an open-ended run for their fast-paced comedy wedding and murder mystery interactive productions. The Executive Team for AspenDream Productions consists of Jenney Rivard, Rocky Hill, Company Manager; Rachel Szosteck, Bristol, Ast. Company Manager, Christopher Bethune, Hartford, Ast. Director; and John Moran, Bridgeport, Creative Consultant.

We are seeking men and women ages 18-80 – any ethnicity. People with outgoing personalities are preferred. Acting experience is required. Venues are throughout Connecticut. There are one to four rehearsals per show.

Those interested are asked to send a headshot and resume, or a recent photo. Actors must be available for rehearsals and performances they are selected for. This is an excellent opportunity to work with professional actors from the original CT production. This is a non-equity show. Please submit info to Janice at ADPDinnerTheater@gmail.com with name, email address, and phone number. ADP is scheduling auditions for February and March 2023. Audition date and time will be assigned via e-mail. Rehearsals are in Marion, CT or through Zoom. “This is the show I was waiting for my whole life”, said Rondini.