We are thrilled to invite actors to audition for our upcoming production of Goodnight Mister Tom, directed by Meryl Raines, a deeply moving and timeless story of friendship, healing, and hope. Set during the dark days of the Second World War, the play follows young London evacuee William Beech as he is placed in the care of elderly rural recluse Tom Oakley, forming an extraordinary and life-changing bond. From two vastly different worlds, the only thing that can bring them together is love.
With over 30 characters, we are looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated company of adults and children ready to bring honesty and emotional depth to this powerful classic. There is the option for actors to play multiple roles across a range of ages, as well as having a larger cast. Actors would ideally work towards either a West Country and/or London accents, but this is not a necessity. The roles have been detailed below to give interested people an idea of what we are looking for, but we would love to see as many adults and children as possible! There is no need to prepare anything in advance. Just simply turn up!
The audition dates are as follows: Wednesday 9th September 7.30-10pm and Sunday 13th September 2-4pm. Both auditions will take place at Jays Green Community Centre in Harleston.
Performances are 29th/30th January and 4/5/6th February 2027
For further information or any queries, please email harlestonplayers@gmail.com
Child Roles:
William Beech: (playing age 10) – Very large role – requires a confident young actor with an unbroken voice. William is an emotionally demanding part, the character faces abuse, loss and trauma. London accent.
Zach: (playing age 11) – Large role – a Jewish boy from a theatrical family – requires an enthusiastic performer with an unbroken voice. Zach is a born performer with tap dancing, singing and acting skills. London accent/well-spoken.
Teen Roles Actors aged between 11-17 are invited to audition for these roles. They will also play an active role in the ensemble.
George: (playing age 10) – Medium role – youngest son of Mrs Fletcher, West Country accent.
Carrie: (playing age 11) – Medium role – the ‘academic’ twin. West Country accent.
Ginnie: (playing age 11) – Medium role – the ‘practical’ twin. West Country accent.
Miss Miller: (playing age 15-17) – Smaller role – local teen who supports her family in the shop. West Country accent.
Adult Roles All doubling is flexible, all those auditioning for ensemble roles will need to perform with both a West Country and London accent:
Tom Oakley: (60s) – Very Large role – Grief-stricken recluse who finds love and companionship through his relationship with Will. West Country accent.
David Hartridge/Policeman: (20s-30s) – recently married RAF pilot, London Policeman.
Mr Miller/ARP Warden: (30+) – local shopkeeper, London Air Raid Warden.
Dr Little/Ticket Collector: (40+)– local doctor, London Ticket Collector.
Charlie Ruddles/Vicar/Mr Stelton: (any age) Country ARP warden, Country Vicar roped into local amateur dramatics, Mr Skelton, psychiatrist.
Mrs Beech: (late 20s-30s) – smaller role – Will’s religious and abusive mother (London accent).
Mrs Annie Hartridge/Nurse: (20s-30s) – Mrs Hartridge local school teacher, London Nurse.
Mrs Thorne/Billeting Officer/Sister: (30+) – Mrs Thorne, runs the local amateur dramatics group, local billeting officer, London nurse.
Mrs Fletcher/Glad/Social Worker: (40+) – Mrs Fletcher local housewife, mother of George, Glad – warm hearted Londoner, social worker.
Puppeteer: (any age) is required to play Sammy the dog who is an integral part of the play – large role.
Our autumn production is the long-awaited sequel to ‘Allo ‘Allo. Based on the hugely popular TV comedy series, this sequel continues the adventures of reluctant resistance hero and harassed café owner Rene Artois, in German-occupied wartime France.
General Von Klinkerhoffen demands a fortune in francs in recompense for the loss of the infamous painting of ‘The Fallen Madonna with the Big Boobies’ and Rene is expected to come up with the cash.
But nothing is ever easy! The cash, a set of forged notes and a bomb all end up hidden in identical camembert cheeses. What could possibly go wrong?
Performances on 23rd, 24th, 29th, 30th and 31st October.
As an award–winning amateur drama company, we are passionate about producing high quality theatre and providing an opportunity for local people to join in the creative process. Auditions are advertised and open to all, and there are numerous backstage roles, from costumes and make up to set building, sound and lighting. We normally put on three main productions each year – anything from musicals to thrillers - and we also run youth theatre projects for 9-15 year olds. Please get in touch for more information – a dramatic opportunity could be just around the corner!
