Stafford Festival Shakespeare: Local child actors wanted

Producers are offering two local child actors the opportunity to play a role in this year's production of The Tempest at Stafford Castle.

Set against the elegant backdrop of the 1930s – the golden age of luxury cruise liners, Hollywood glamour and the dying days of Vaudeville – SFS 2017 will transport audiences to the exotic shores of East Africa, to the Banjuni Isles off the coast of Somalia.

For the role of young Caliban, SFS producers are seeking two boys of black ethnicity aged between eight and 12 years old, to each perform on alternative nights.

Producer Derrick Gask said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for two local actors to be part of a professional production and gain an invaluable insight into the world of theatre.

"Our production of The Tempest draws inspiration from African culture and mythology, and as such the character of Caliban will be portrayed as a Somalian witch doctor.

"In Shakespeare's original text, Caliban is the son of a witch called Sycrorax, who prevents him from establishing a friendship with Miranda when they are both children at the beginning of the play. It is this early meeting with Miranda that our young actors will be required to portray.

"This year's show is set to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, and I would encourage any parent whose child may be interested in taking part to get in touch."

In ordered to be considered for the part, individuals must be able to attend a number of rehearsal held on Saturday mornings throughout May/June, as well as the technical and dress rehearsals (June 20 to 22), and all scheduled performances throughout June and July.

Further details are available from Wes Carter on 01785 619086 or by emailing wcarter@staffordbc.gov.uk

The Tempest will open on Thursday 22nd June and run until Saturday, July 8, 2017 at Stafford Castle.