REHEARSALS are well underway for the season opener The Family Way — and one member of the cast is looking forward to his debut at the Octagon Theatre.

Akshay Gulati, aged 20, has been cast as sweet and simple Eddie Taylor in the Bill Naughton play set in 1960s Bolton, and says he is delighted that he can use his natural northern accent for the part.

The son of soap star and dancer Shobna Gulati is the youngest member of the cast and is performing in his first professional role, having recently completed a foundation course in acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.

The Family Way, directed by Elizabeth Newman, features many references to the town throughout and follows newlyweds Arthur and Jenny Fitton, who are young, in love, and excited to embark on the rest of their lives together.

Mr Gulati said: "It's going great so far. It's been really easy to work with the cast and Elizabeth is a fantastic director.

"I got sent the role from my agent and it's the closest part I've ever had that matches me. I have had a lot of auditions for various parts that didn't suit but I feel this part was made for me.

"Eddie is a similar age and he's very genuine, plus he's northern. I think this is the first audition I had where I could use my own accent rather than putting on a southern one."

Not only is it Mr Gulati's first time at the Octagon — but also in Bolton.

He said: "The play is very Bolton-focussed so it's great to be able to perform it in the town. Even though I'm only from round the corner [Oldham] I've never had the chance to explore Bolton so it's been nice to experience somewhere different.

"It's really lively and has a real buzz about the place."

His love of acting was nurtured by his mum — best known for playing Sunita in Coronation Street.

He said: "I grew up in green rooms watching my mum so I never had any other career path in mind. Mum has been great at teaching me about the industry and I admit it is nice to have that inside figure guiding you, but I do want to carve my own path.

"Although of course, like most mums she is very proud."

The Family Way is running from September 4 to October 3. Call 01204 520661 to book.