The Marion Art Center doesn’t usually have an issue with casting, but so far no male actor willing to walk on stage in his skivvies has appeared. But it’s not for a lack of trying, said Executive Director Deborah Bokelkamp.

She has gone so far as to ask cute waiters if they act, insisting, of course, that it’s purely professional.

“I don’t know what else to do,” said Bokelkamp.

Securing the rights to produce “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” the Tony Award-winning Broadway play by Christopher Durang is an honor for the small theater. As the title suggests, Spike is an important character. Search for images of the comedy online and you’ll see why the part hasn’t been easy to cast.

The 20-something love, er, lust interest in Durang’s play prances and preens around the stage in his underwear, the occasional pair of sneakers and taut abs. A wallflower he's not.

“It would be nice if he’s twenty-five and looks like a Greek god,” said Bokelkamp.

Although there are many thespians at the local high schools, she said the part would not be appropriate for that age level.

The art center also needs to cast the part of Nina, who is in her 20s as well. The other parts, for actors in their mid-50s, have been cast.

In lamenting the scarcity of options, Bokelkamp said the area, particularly the Cape used to attract aspiring young actors who spent their summers living on stipends and performing.

“That’s just not the way it happens any more,” she said. “You go to New York and either you make it or you don’t. There don’t seem to be any stepping stones any more.”

In larger theater circles, Bokelkamp said the part of Spike is a “plumb part” for male actors starting out.

Unless someone steps forward, the production, which would be Kate Fishman’s directorial debut in Marion, will be at a standstill.

Fishman and her husband recently purchased a summer house in town, and she immediately began volunteering at the art center. Fishman regularly directs while at home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, which also happens to be the setting of the play.

“She’s one of those people that we wish for all the time here,” said Bokelkamp.

Now, Fishman just needs a full cast for the play, scheduled to run August 11, 12, 13, and 18, 19, 20.

“We have the rights to do this fantastically funny, hilarious play that would be so great, and we can’t get the darn thing cast,” said Bokelkamp. “In my mind, this is ‘Desperately Seeking Spike.’”