AUDITIONS FOR CLASSIC SHAKESPEARE COMEDY
AT CHESIL THEATRE, WINCHESTER
Chesil Theatre will be holding open auditions for their outdoor production of William Shakespeare’s comedy Much Ado About Nothing on 2nd, 3rd and 4th May 2026. Performances will take place on the playing fields of The Pilgrims’ School, against the backdrop of the historic Wolvesey Castle, Winchester from 15th to 18th July 2026. Booking is now available from www.chesiltheatre.org.uk.
The play follows a fresh new interpretation, re-imagined at the end of WWII. Breaking their journey on the way home from the front, a group of soldiers stop for a few days’ rest, recreation and a little romance.
Chesil Theatre will be looking to cast 20 actors, across the whole age range. This adaptation seeks to address the gender imbalance, present is so many Shakespeare plays, with equal opportunities for male and female roles. On Saturday 2nd May 2pm to 4pm, auditions will be for the challenging lead roles of Benedick and Beatrice only, although those attending will also be considered for other characters and need not attend a further audition. All other roles will be auditioned from 7.30pm on Sunday 3rd and Monday 4th May at Chesil Theatre, Chesil Street, Winchester SO23 0HU.
Much Ado About Nothing has been adapted by Director Jennifer Hale who says:
“This timeless play delivers razor-sharp banter, slapstick comedy and most importantly a happy ending. It will be an open-air enemies-to-lovers classic and we welcome everyone to the informal reading on 1st May 2026 to read, listen and learn more about this exciting production.
