Barn Theatre announces cast and creative team for festive musical HONK!
The cast and creative team has been announced for the Barn Theatre’s festive production of Honk!, the award-winning musical by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, which runs from 21 November - 3 January.
Directed by Ryan McBryde, this much-loved reimagining of The Ugly Duckling promises a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud adventure for the whole family this Christmas.
Meet Ugly, a duckling who stands out from the rest. Teased by his siblings and friends for his looks, Ugly soon discovers there is far more to him than meets the eye. When he becomes lost and finds himself in danger, he embarks on an extraordinary journey filled with wild goose chases, mistaken identities and unexpected friendships, all in search of where he truly belongs.
Featuring a wonderfully witty book and memorable songs, Honk! celebrates individuality, acceptance and the importance of looking beyond appearances. A winner of multiple awards, including the Olivier Award for Best Musical, the show has enjoyed more than 8,000 productions worldwide, delighting audiences of all ages with its irresistible blend of humour, heart and theatrical magic.
Leading the cast is Claire-Marie Hall (Operation Mincemeat), with Ugly being played by Timi Akinyosade (Paddington The Musical), alongside Molly Cheesley (NOW That's What I Call A Musical), Maz McGinlay (Hairspray), Nikki Biddington (Cats), Silas Wyatt-Barke (The Prince of Egypt), Daniel Robinson (Heathers the Musical), and Joseph Claus (Phantom of the Opera), with Rachael Proud on multi-reed and Ted Hayes on drums.
The production will also feature a young company of four local performers, who are still to be cast. The Barn Theatre is looking to discover emerging talent from the local area, with paid roles available for young performers playing Ducklings and Froglets. Auditions will take place at the Barn Theatre on 24 October, with rehearsals beginning on 26 October ahead of the show’s opening on 21 November. The opportunity is open to confident young performers with singing, acting and dance skills, with applicants of all genders and appearances encouraged to apply.
The creative team also includes choreographer Joanna Goodwin, musical director Ben Ward, musical supervisor and orchestrator Lee Freeman, and casting director Harry Blumenau CDG.