Harleston Players

AUDITIONS for our January show, The Happiest Days of Your Life by John Dighton, directed by Paul Baker, will take place on WEDNESDAY 22^nd SEPTEMBER, 7.30pm – 10.00pm, and SUNDAY 26^th SEPTEMBER 2pm – 5pm at Jays Green. There are lots of excellent parts available, and a chance to dip your toe into some classic comedy.

Set in 1947 in post-war England, the comedy revolves around the headmaster of a boys’ boarding school receiving word that he must share his campus with the pupils and staff of another school whose bombed buildings remain in ruins. He is horrified, however, when the new arrivals turn out to be from a girls’ school led by an indomitable headmistress. Matters get even worse when demanding parents from both schools turn up to check on their precious little darlings!

There are 6 male and 5 female roles, plus 2 youngsters who ideally would look 10-16 years of age. For the 2 headteachers, think Margaret Rutherford & Alastair Sim - although you don't have to look like them! The other characters include a couple in their 20s, plus an ageing, cantankerous caretaker. They are all interesting roles and challenges abound!

Characters: 

1. Dick Tassell, Asst. Master at Hilary Hall – in his 20s, sporty, cheerful, just back from the war having played an active part. Gets together with Joyce at the end.
2. Rainbow, the school porter/groundsman -could be in his 50s, 60s or 70s. Cantankerous, rebellious, gloomy?
3. Rupert Billings, Senior asst. master – 30s, 40s, 50s? Cynical; didn’t go to war.
4. Godfrey Pond, Headmaster of Hilary – 50s, 60s or 70s. Pompous.
5. Miss Evelyn Whitchurch, Principal of St. Swithin's – 50s, 60s? Formidable.
6. Miss Gossage, her Senior Asst. Mistress – 30s, 40s, 50s. Hearty, sporty.
7. Hopcroft Minor, pupil of Hilary – between 10 and 15? Naughty; innocent looking?
8. Barbara Cahoun, pupil of St Swithin's – same age as above – hearty, self confident.
9. Joyce Harper, Asst. Mistress of St Swithin's – 20s? Likes Tassell
10. Mrs Peck, parent of Julia (unseen); 50s – old fashioned? Nervous?
11. Reverend Edward Peck, 50s – earnest, nervous?
12. Mr Sowter, parent of Cyril (unseen); middle aged – pugnacious, self important.
13. Mrs Sowter, middle aged – stately severe?