Auditions for big celebration (From Witney Gazette)

Auditions for big celebration

8:04am Monday 28th January 2008 in Witney By David Horne

AUDITIONS are to go ahead for a play to celebrate 800 years of Witney history.

The Witney Story, devised by local historian Charles Gott, is to be staged later this year at the town's Corn Exchange.

Mr Gott has recently completed The New Book Of Witney with his wife, Joan - the third history of the town the couple have written. He says Witney received its name in 969, but its birth as a modern town occurred in about 1208, when Bishop of Winchester, Peter Des Roches, began creating the large market place - now Church Green - in the centre of the town.

On Wednesday, February 6, people are invited to show their talent with auditions for a wide variety of parts for actors, singers and dancers. There is also a need for a backstage crew.

The auditions take place in the main hall of the Corn Exchange from 6pm.

Mr Gott said: "There are a great variety of parts to be filled, from kings and queens and bishops to soldiers, spinners, weavers and ordinary townsfolk.

"It is part of the celebration of 800 years of the existence of Church Green, and the play depicts the history of the town from 969 to the present day. You don't need to have had previous experience, just an interest in taking part."

Those unable to attend audition, should ring Mr Gott, on 01993 772404.