Calling all actors

Times Reporter

 

Ever wanted to steal from the rich, give to the poor and run around in a feathered cap and tights? The Strathmore Theatre Players are looking for actors for their Christmas pantomime of Robin Hood. Director Laura Bakken said the hope is to find about 20 actors ranging from age 12 and up. 

Acting experience is not a must, however being able to read is an asset.  

“For the most part we’re planning to have people over the age of 12, it’s designed to be for more mature people,” said Bakken.

The Strathmore Theatre Players are planning to host more children’s acting classes so for parents with younger kids who might be interested in acting, that may be the thing for them. If there are enough kids interested, the hope is to have a preshow for Robin Hood put on by the younger kids, said Bakken. 

“So pretty much everybody can be involved in one way or another,” she said.

The Strathmore Theatre Players have done other pantomimes in the past, Ali Baba and Snow White and Jack and the Beanstalk. It’s a British tradition and the performance is held at Christmas time for kids.

“Traditionally English pantomimes are kind of silly plays all based on folk tales or fairy tales. In them there is always the character called the dame and it’s always a woman played by a man, a really over the top, crazy, effervescent sort of woman. Oftentimes the lead male is played by a female,” said Bakken. 

“They are meant to be silly and fun, they were designed for kids. The audience is encouraged to yell things at times, boo the bad guy and all that sort of thing. They are fun and meant to be silly and not serious at all.” 

This Bakken’s first time directing, and though she is nervous she said some of the seasoned directors will be on hand to offer advice and help her through the performance.

The first audition was on Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. and the next one will be on Sept. 8 at 10 a.m. Anyone interested in auditioning can contact Laura Bakken for more information at 403-934-5196.