The Stage

Old Vic offers young talent a voice in 24 Hour Plays

Published Tuesday 22 March 2005 at 15:15 by Jeremy Austin

Young actors, directors, producers and writers aged between 18 and 25 and living in Greater London are being invited to take part in this year’s talent search at the Old Vic Theatre.

Entitled The 24 Hour Plays - Starbucks New Voices, the 50 successful applicants will conceive, write, rehearse and perform six new short plays on the Old Vic stage on July 31 within the space of 24 hours. All those taking part will have had substantial previous experience.

The new venture is taking place in addition to the 24 Hour Plays fundraiser that took place at the Old Vic last year and which is repeated again this year on June 19. Application forms are available from Starbucks nationwide from March 21 or can be downloaded from www.oldvictheatre.com. The closing date for applications is April 22. Auditions will be held on May 14-15. The final 50 will be invited to the 24 Hour Play on June 19 to learn from professionals and will also take part in a series of workshops.

Kate Pakenham, producer of Old Vic New Voices which is running the initiative, said: “I first came across The 24 Hour Plays in the US and was blown away by the sheer energy and excitement of the idea. Last year, we brought the concept to London as a celebrity fundraising event, which united a host of extraordinary theatrical talent.

“This year, we are very proud to announce The 24 Hour Plays - Starbucks New Voices. This unique theatrical competition will offer 50 young people across London the chance to come and prove their talent on one of the most famous stages in the world.”