Wells Theatre Festival, set to be held from 20th to 23rd June next year, is on the lookout for local talent to take part in its next community production of William Shakespeare's "Macbeth".

The play will be staged in the atmospheric setting of the historic Bishop's Barn on Silver Street.

The festival, under the patronage of Dame Judi Dench and Sir Richard Eyre, invites residents of Wells and the surrounding communities to join the Wells Community Theatre Company. This is a unique opportunity for locals to work alongside professional actors and present a live performance as a key part of the festival.

Artistic Director Ros Johnson said: "Macbeth is one of Shakespeare's most renowned works, and we are thrilled to bring it to life at the 2024 Festival. We aim to transform the Bishop's Barn into a dramatic setting fitting for Macbeth's castle. We welcome new talents to join our community company, with no previous acting experience required. There's a role for everyone."

"Macbeth" is a gripping tale of the corrosive effects of greed and ambition. Set against the backdrop of the Scottish moors, it narrates the story of General Macbeth, who, influenced by a prophecy and spurred by his wife, commits regicide to ascend to the throne. The play delves into themes of guilt, paranoia, and the unquenchable thirst for power, leading to tragic consequences.

Auditions for the play will be conducted through collaborative workshops on 7th January 2024. Those interested in participating or seeking more information can reach out to Ros Johnson at [email protected].

The festival's website, www.wellstheatrefestival.org, offers further details about the event. A recent photo accompanying this release shows members of the Wells Community Theatre engaged in a stage combat workshop, highlighting the hands-on experiences available to participants.