ASPIRING thespians have a chance to be part of once of the oldest amateur theatre companies in the country.

Tyldesley Little Theatre is staging two open auditions for two much-loved productions — The Vicar of Dibley and Jack of Beanstalk.

Matt Walshaw from the theatre company said: "Tyldesley Little Theatre (TLT) first came to life in 1921 and today is still serving the local community with high quality drama in live theatre.

"Now in our 95th Season, we are one of the older amateur dramatic societies in the country and can trace many of our stage productions right back to those early days.

"We are an amateur society — members of the Greater Manchester Drama Federation — run totally by volunteers but offering entertainment to professional standards, bringing live theatre to you at a reasonable price. We usually perform four plays a year along with our traditional family pantomime. Our plays are varied, offering a wide range of entertainment from comedy and thrillers through to farce."

The auditorium, a small, intimate space, seating 139 people on two levels.

The theatre group meets regularly, normally on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week for rehearsals, with a break during the summer for holidays.

Matt said: "We are always pleased to welcome new members to the company, in an acting, backstage or social sphere. It doesn't matter whether you want to act on stage or simply brew up, you are very welcome. We need members to help out in all the jobs that occur in theatre. These include, directing, acting, backstage crew, set construction, sound and lighting, greeting patrons, making refreshments, and, regrettably, washing up!"

Those wanting to know more should visit us on Tuesday evenings at the theatre in Lemon Street address in Tyldesley.

Matt said: "You will be greeted to a big welcome and a lovely brew."

The Vicar of Dibley, which Matt will direct,will hold auditions on Tuesday, June 19, at 7.30pm for a run in September.

Auditions will take place for five males roles, three female roles and one female cameo role.

Matt said: "That's right, this classic, rib-tickling comedy finally makes from the screen to the stage here at TLT. Join Geraldine as she learns to adapt to the odd folk in Dibley."

Auditions for the Christmas show Jack and the Beanstalk, directed by Connor Parkinson, will take place on June 21 at 7.30pm for its run in December.

There are various parts for both sexes.