A DRIVE to get the community involved in an outdoor Shakespeare event has been launched.
The adaptation of Shakespeare’s riotous The Merry Wives of Windsor will travel between venues around Frinton over the weekend of June 6 and 7 before moving to Wingfield Barns in Suffolk for performances in July.
And Woodbridge-based Matthew Townshend, whose company mtp is staging the event in conjunction with Tendring District Council, is urging both adults and younger people who want a taste of treading the boards to attend an open session to find out more – and maybe even land a role.
He said: “We have some great opportunities for local people to really get involved in the production.
“I am aiming for a great supporting cast to work alongside the professional team, who include John D Collins, best known for his appearances in BBCTV’s ‘Allo! Allo!’
“It is a very ambitious event but the more the community owns it the better it will be – so people should come to the open session and make sure it is a huge success. It should be enormous fun as well.”
This is the second year running mtp has involved the community in a theatre project after last year’s successful staging of original play All Our Holidays as part of the celebration of 75 years of the Frinton Summer Theatre.
Celebrations included an impressive cast at Frinton led by Victor Meldrew himself, actor Richard Wilson.
Mr Townshend added: “Even if you just want to know more, come along to the open session and we’ll be able to give you all the information you need.
“No previous experience is necessary if you like performing or would like to try your hand at it, then this is the opportunity for you.”
The production team is also busy arranging workshops for local primary school children in a bid to get young people involved in the chorus.
“Theatre like this is a wonderful way for a community to come together – and what a great way to kick start the summer.”
The open session will be held between 10am and 4pm on April 11 at Frinton Free Church.
For more information about the show please visit www.mtproductions.co.uk or call 01394 385022
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