SILCHESTER Players are getting ready to start rehearsing their first Shakespeare production as part of the RSC’s Open Stages project.

The latter, in association with Southampton’s Nuffield Theatre, is the UK’s biggest amateur theatre project and the Players are one of the 90 groups selected to participate this year.

They will perform Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night on October 10, 11, 17, and 18.

The RSC and the Nuffield will work closely with Silchester Players providing professional training, director mentoring, feedback and support. Professional directors will attend rehearsals and guide and share their knowledge and experience.

RSC Open Stages producer Ian Wainwright commented: “The Royal Shakespeare Company are delighted to be working with Silchester Players and supporting their production of Twelfth Night.

“The RSC understands the skill, commitment, energy and passion it takes to make theatre happen. We therefore have a huge respect for those DIY, grassroots theatre-makers who create theatre in their spare time often on very limited resources.”

Director Brian Gillett has already staged several of Silchester Players’ productions, including The Haunting of Hill House and The Importance of Being Earnest both of which received awards from NODA, as well as having acted in many more.

He said: “Directing Shakespeare has been a long-held personal ambition which is now being realised with the help of the RSC.”

Silchester Players have been performing since 1976. Their annual pantomime and two shows per year raise money for local charities.

To find out more, or to get involved, contact Brian on 01189 815961.