Adapted by Tim Whitnall
'A whirlwind of adventure... lovingly evokes images of Britain in times gone by... ignites an unexpected surge of patriotism'
It’s 1973, and a young man from Des Moines, Iowa, has arrived on the ferry at Dover. He intends to conquer the whole of the island, like Caesar attempted before him.
But Caesar didn’t have to deal with counterpanes, kippers, Cadbury’s Curly Wurlies, or Mrs Smegma the landlady’s eccentric house rules. As Bill travels the length and breadth of Britain, through villages with names like Titsey and Little Dribbling, something strange starts to happen. Can it be true? Is he really starting to feel at home?
This means you do not have to be a member to audition for this production!
We always look forward to welcoming new members and you only need to become a member once you get cast in the production or join the Creative Team.
This is a lovely, funny and heartwarming stage version of Bill Bryson’s best selling travelogue about his journeys around the UK on his first arrival here in 1973 and during his subsequent trip to write the book in 1994. It’s a wonderful adaptation for seven performers – one playing Bill, with three actors and three actresses playing the other 100-odd parts between them. This is going to be a wonderful challenge – and if you’re scared of a quick change, audition for Bill!
‘A pilgrimage of delight… Delicious fun… wonderfully vivid cameos, to great comic effect and always affectionate rather than simply caricature’ WhatsonStage
Bill – A gentle American. He was 22 when he first came to the UK, was 43 when the book was written and is now 74, so anyone between these ages would be considered! It’s a meaty role, acting as both narrator and lead character, interacting with the other actors.
Actors 1, 2 and 3 & Actresses 1, 2 and 3 (although I’m happy to refer to you as Actors 1-6 if you prefer) – Playing parts ranging from soft porn actor/actress to Sir David Attenborough and from God to Rabbie Burns, you won’t be bored! An ability to do accents would be an advantage, although isn’t essential – but varying characterisations will be!
If you’d like to join me on this wonderful adventure, come and audition.
If you’d like a script to read, can’t make either of these audition dates, or have any questions, please contact Paul Morton on 07906 690082 or paulrmorton2@gmail.com.
