Belgrade Theatre invites local youngsters to open auditions for panto

Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre is holding open auditions at the theatre on Sunday 8 September for children to win a part in the chorus of this year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

The auditions are totally open and young people from all backgrounds are welcome, irrelevant of any acting or dancing experience they may already have.

In a change to previous years when children as young as 8 could audition, this year’s auditions will be for children aged between 9 and 16 years of age. Also, this year children are required to register their attendance prior to arrival at the theatre. Registration forms can be downloaded from www.beglrade.co.uk or hard copies can be collected in advance from the theatre Box Office.

The auditions will be led by Coventry’s panto legend Iain Lauchlan, who will be treading the boards once again as Dame Trott. Iain said, “I had such a brilliant time being back at the Belgrade last Christmas. It was fantastic to meet up with so many old friends in Coventry and to entertain such appreciative audiences. As well as playing Dame Trott I will also be directing the show again, but I must say that being on stage will be the icing on the cake…..or is it lemon meringue pie? Either way I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again and to auditioning the new batch of youngsters who might be joining me on stage.”

Auditions will start promptly at 10am. Parents are asked to bring their children to the theatre foyer no later than 9.45am and remain with them throughout the day.

During the audition the choreographer will teach the children a short dance routine which will then be presented to the panto director. If a child makes it through the first round s/he will be asked to stay for a further round. It is advised that children wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for them to move and dance in, and that they bring a soft drink with them.

 

Successful candidates will need to commit to rehearsals on school night evenings and some Saturdays from 9 November 2013. In the week running up to opening night, children will need to be present all day for the technical rehearsals. Those children chosen for the panto chorus and their parents will be asked to attend a meeting at the end of the day about licensing and panto guidelines.

Running at the Belgrade Theatre from 27 Nov 2013 to 5 Jan 2014, Jack and the Beanstalk tells the tale of Dame Trott and her two sons Jack and Simon as they embark on an adventure to save the magic harp from the clutches of the evil giant Blunderbore and his wicked henchman Fleshcreep.

Featuring spectacular scenery, stupendous costumes, hilarious slapstick and bags of audience participation, it promises to be a treat for all the family.

Tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk are available from the Box Office on 024 7655 3055 priced from £13.50 to £22.25 with family tickets and concessions available. Cheaper tickets are available online at www.belgrade.co.uk.