STAGE-M Presents “THE SHARK IS BROKEN” by Ian Shaw and Joseph Nixon

Auditions are Feb. 1 and Feb. 2, 2026 at 6:30 at STAGE-M Scene Shop.
(708 West Ave. Big Rapids, MI)
Callbacks (as needed) are Feb. 3

Director Laura Taylor is looking for three adult men (3/M) to play the roles of Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw.

This play contains adult language and themes.

April 30-May 3, 2026
Crossroads Charter Academy Auditorium
Big Rapids, MI

The scene: 1974. Martha’s Vineyard. The open water.

Three actors are stuck together on a boat, to fulfill the vision of a 27 year old little-known director named Steven Spielberg.

They don’t know it yet, but they’re filming the FIRST summer blockbuster.

Go behind the scenes in this 3/M dramedy as Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, and Richard Dreyfuss kill time, squabble, drink, play cards, bond, argue, and ponder life; all while waiting for the title mechanical shark to function long enough to finish the movie.

Fun fact: Playwright Ian Shaw is the son of JAWS actor Robert Shaw, and he drew facts and inspiration from journals his father kept during the filming.

Fresh from sell-out West End and Broadway runs, come and enjoy this new play in Big Rapids, Michigan!

Directed by Laura Deksnis Taylor
Auditions Feb. 1 and Feb. 2, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Callbacks (as needed) Feb. 3
STAGE-M Scene Shop.
708 West Ave. Big Rapids, MI
Adult language and themes

“The script never lets interest lag over the play’s ninety, intermission-less minutes, the tension, humor, depth, silliness and horror coming like waves lapping the boat.” —Associated Press.

“THE SHARK IS BROKEN wittily excels not just as a clever time capsule, but as an examination of male bonding and competitiveness, ego, frailty, fame, and filmmaking.” —The Daily Beast.

“Laughs aplenty.” —Entertainment Weekly.

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STAGE-M’s 2025 SEASON
We’re so excited to bring you this fantastic year of theatre!

April 10, 11, 12, 13, 2025:
“A Doll’s House Part 2” by Lucas Hnath
Directed by Frank Hartley

June 16-21, 2025:
Disney’s Dare to Dream, JR THEATRE CAMP
(together with Big Rapids Public Schools)

July 18, 19, 20 and 25, 26, 27 2025:
Roald Dahl’s “Matilda”
Directed by Devann Hattis

Labor Day Weekend 2025:
5th Annual “Broadway in the Park”