Auditions are being held for actors aged 10 to 100 to perform at the Wyvern Theatre in October. ‘The Uncelebrated Journey’ throws a spotlight on Swindon’s talent and celebrates the town’s creativity. The evening is the brainchild of Nicky Alberry, the new High Sheriff of Wiltshire, and will raise funds for charity.
The showcase will take place on Saturday 6 October and will feature music, drama and dance as well as the words of Alfred Williams, Swindon’s famous railway worker-poet. Alfred, who lived from 1877 to 1930, wrote poetry and books after completing his gruelling work in Swindon’s Great Western Railway works and was nicknamed “The Hammerman Poet” as a result.
Prime Theatre, the town’s only professional theatre company, is recruiting a chorus of actors to join members of Prime Youth Theatre as they tell Alfred’s story. It’s hoped that the chorus of actors will demonstrate the diversity of modern Swindon. Mark Powell, Prime’s Artistic Director, said, “We’re looking for actors of every age and background. Alfred didn’t believe in limiting his creativity and neither do we. If you’re at school, a member of an amateur group or just someone with acting skills and an interest in Swindon, we want to hear from you.”
‘The Uncelebrated Journey’ will include performances from Swindon Symphony Orchestra, Ten in a Bar, Janice Thompson Trust, SAPAC the South Asian Performing Arts Centre, The Wessex Choir and Swindon Dance as well as professional artists associated with the town. Nicky Alberry, High Sherriff of Wiltshire, added, “I’m thrilled that we have this opportunity for individual performers to complement the many groups who will be part of the event. This is great chance to feature on the Wyvern stage alongside some top talent.”
Performers should also be free on the evening of Friday 5 October and in the day of 6 October. Auditions will be held at the Wyvern Theatre on Thursday 30 August at 6pm and 7:30pm with rehearsals taking place on Thursday evenings until the actual performance
Audition slots are limited and can be reserved by contacting Prime on 01793 614864.