Honiton Community Theatre Company are searching for a talented new cast of actors and singers to take part in their next theatrical adventure ‘Twelfth Night’ by William Shakespeare. In celebration of Shakespeare’s 400th Anniversary, they’re tackling one of his most popular comedies. Of course, as well as a talented cast, the crew is just as important and particularly we’ll be looking for backstage crew and support with making costumes, props and set for the play.
An information afternoon will be held at The Beehive on the 24th January at 4:30pm in the bar when you can find out which parts you can audition for, the songs from the show, the ideas and concepts behind the production and all important details about rehearsals and putting on the production. The production itself will be mounted in May where two performances will take place with the potential to take the show on tour around local villages.
In the production the story follows Viola, a character who arrives on a foreign island and is enthralled in a love story which involves some of Shakespeare’s funniest writing. Cross-dressing, disguises, yellow tights and shocking surprises all feature in the plot, though the script for this production will be cut down to make it more accessible and will also feature live pop and rock music to add a sparkle of sound to the show.
For the show, open auditions are being held and anyone is welcome to take part no matter how much experience you’ve had on stage or off. HCTC have a friendly team who love to welcome new members and with the potential of four productions each year there will be plenty of choice for new members.
Twelfth Night is one of the easiest of Shakespeare’s plays to understand if you’ve never acted or read Shakespeare’s plays before. This is a real focus of the production as explains Director Alex Jackson:
“Some might think that Shakespeare is difficult to understand and old-fashioned, but not in this production. We’re bringing the play bang up to date with a modern setting of a paradise holiday island and a cut-down, easy-to-understand script which we’ll work on together to celebrate a bit of Shakespeare in style”.
Barbara Simmonds, who is HCTC’s Chairperson explains the reasons behind choosing Twelfth Night as their spring production:
“This year celebrates 400 years since Shakespeare died so we thought we’d challenge ourselves and perform one of Shakespeare’s well known comedies.With much confusion and an ill-fated love story, the brilliant writing unwinds the tale to a very satisfactory conclusion. Why not join us in the challenge and confusion and make some good friends along the way!”
For more information you can follow HCTC on social media or visit their website honitontheatre.co.uk. Any enquiries will be answered via email (info@honitontheatre.co.uk)
