Young talent sought for Macrobert panto

The Macrobert Arts Centre is looking for young people aged 11-17 to join its company of performers if they have an interest in singing, dancing and acting with a chance to learn and develop a range of skills.

Rehearsals for this year’s pantomime, Rapunzel: A Hair Braiding Adventure, will begin in the simmer with an intensive three-day session followed by Sunday rehearsals throughout September and an additional week-long intensive rehearsal during the October holidays.

The young company will then join the professionals when they take up residence in November in the run up to six weeks of performances finishing at the end of December.

A high level of commitment and enthusiasm will be required, but organisers say it is an invaluable opportunity for young people with an interest in performing arts.

Johnny McKnight – writer, director and panto dame – is excited for this year’s auditions.

He said: “For the last 14 years I’ve had the pleasure of working with some of the most talented youths from across the local area who have been the heart and soul of our panto productions.

“This year we want you!

“We’re looking for participants to come and audition to be part of our Rapunzel: A Hair Braiding Adventure cast.”

The auditions are promised to be very informal and fun with no need to prepare anything in advance.

Applications forms, which need to be returned by next Wednesday (May 8), and more information is available at the macrobertartscentre.org website.

Johnny added: “It’s a fantastic opportunity to be part of a large company, to develop your theatre skills, show off your talent, and to meet people your own age interested in theatre.

“If you want to be part of our all-singing, all-dancing company then please come along and meet with us all on Sunday, May 12.

“Over a five-month period you get to work with our musical director, choreographer and myself, together we’ll be rehearsing to bring to our audience a Christmas extravaganza.”