MORE auditions are to be held for local performers to appear in the Touring Consortium Theatre Company's adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities in Darlington later this year.

Producers need men to fill specific roles as well as male and female performers to boost the company.

Director Eduard Lewis, who has worked extensively for the Royal Exchange Theatre, said “We saw some wonderfully talented performers at the recent auditions along with some who had little or no performing experience but showed a natural spark that I know we can work with.”

“We have cast many of the principal roles but are keen to find men for several character parts, aged between 20 and 45. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something truly special. Theatre experience is not necessary, just enthusiasm and the willingness to work hard and be part of a team.”

The cast will also work with Katy Weir, associate director of the National Youth Theatre and artistic director for Odd Man Out, a company created to champion new writing for theatre, and choreographer Kane Husbands, who worked on the London 2012 Olympics welcome ceremonies.

Charles Dickens considered A Tale Of Two Cities the best story he had written. Interweaving one family’s intensely personal drama with the terror and chaos of the French Revolution, it is an epic story of love, sacrifice and redemption amid horrific violence and world-changing events.

The play is being produced in association with Darlington Civic Theatre. Performances take place at Central Hall in the Dolphin Centre on Saturday and Sunday, November 19 and 20.

The second set of auditions, open to all aged 16 and over, take place in Darlington on Sunday, August 14. Anyone interested should email lyndsey.middleton@darlington.gov.uk or call her on 01325 405510 to register.

Tickets cost £18 for adults and £10 for under-16s from the box office on 01325 486555 or darlingtoncivic.co.uk.