THE BEAR Pit Theatre is gearing up for Christmas – and people are being urged to join them on stage and behind the scenes.
The company’s festive production will be Terry Pratchett’ Hogfather, adapted by Stepghen Briggs, and directed by Emily Myerscough, who has previously overseen productions of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, The Railway Children and James and the Giant Peach at the Rother Street theatre.
When the Hogfather, Discworld’s rather unusual version of Father Christmas, mysteriously vanishes on Hogswatch Eve, Death himself takes it upon himself to fill the role, delivering presents and trying, in his own inimitable way, to keep Hogswatch alive.
His granddaughter Susan is drawn into the mystery, uncovering a plot that threatens not just the Hogfather, but the very fabric of belief itself.
Ahead of auditions in mid May, the company is holding a read through at the United Reformed Church on Sunday (April 12), starting at 7pm.
It is open to anyone interested in being part of the production, whether on stage or behind the scenes. The aims to offer people a chance to get a feel for the script and the world of the play. No preparation is needed.
While there will be some roles for younger performers, this is not a traditional family Christmas show, and leans more towards older children, teens and adults in both tone and content.
Visit www.thebearpit.org.uk for further details.
* The Stratford One Act Festival returns to the Bear Pit from April 15 to 18.
Performances will feature groups from Stratford and surrounding towns and villages.
Visit the website for full details.
