The Exeter Northcott Theatre is thrilled to announce open auditions for young dancers to join the ensemble of its upcoming production of Romeo & Juliet. This production marks Northcott’s return to producing Shakespeare after over a decade’s hiatus and promises to be an exciting opportunity for local performers to take to Exeter’s iconic stage.
Romeo & Juliet will be the first ‘Made by Exeter Northcott’ production of 2025, directed by Martin Berry, the theatre’s Creative Director and Joint Chief Executive. “One of the most important changes to the Northcott in the last year has been a move back to producing a lot more of our own shows,” says Berry. “It’s extremely important for a regional theatre, as the only producing theatre in that city, to be giving excellent opportunities to local artists, and we’re proud to do so.” Running from 2 – 12 July, the production will see 15 local dancers aged 18-25 perform alongside a cast of five professional actors.
Running from 2 – 12 July, the production will see 15 local dancers aged 18-25 perform alongside a cast of five professional actors.
Berry, whose recent production The Commotion Time received a five-star review from The Stage and a rave review from Exeposé, is eager to showcase the talent of young performers from Devon, whose “energy and dynamism will take this landmark production to the next level,” he says.
The Northcott’s production, Shakespeare’s timeless tale of love and tragedy will be told with music as a central element in the theatrical experience, without necessarily becoming a musical: “the show will be in a contemporary setting and focus in particular on what happens when society feels fractured and acrimonious, and young people are searching for guidance and leadership. And we will be finding all the laughs too — Shakespeare should never be dull, and this production certainly won’t be,” Berry says.
Open auditions will be held in a workshop format on March 3, March 7, and March 8 at either the Barnfield or Northcott Theatre. Everyone between the ages of 18 and 25 are welcome to sign up, regardless of their level, experience or formal training. Enthusiasm and a commitment to the rehearsal and performance schedule are most important. Sign-ups are open until Monday, February 24 at 12pm. Limited slots are available, so early applications are encouraged as places may fill up before the deadline.
Enthusiasm and a commitment to the rehearsal and performance schedule are most important. Sign-ups are open until Monday, February 24 at 12pm.
The production will run from 2 – 12 July, with technical and dress rehearsals leading up to opening night. Performers must be available for all scheduled shows, including daytime performances and rehearsals will take place on Thursday evenings between April and July, with additional Saturday rehearsals on June 7, 14, and 21.
Past ensemble members have described their experiences as incredibly rewarding. Thea Mackney, who performed in The Commotion Time, encourages you to take the leap: “The Commotion Time was such a brilliant opportunity, and really rewarding to be a part of. If you’re thinking about auditioning for Romeo & Juliet, go for it! You’ll have the best time doing it.”
You can sign up for auditions here before February 24 at 12 pm. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the Southwest theatre scene in this amazing Shakespeare production.
