Young actors hope for Octagon stardom

4:45pm Tuesday 2nd September 2008

A group of young actors are hoping to wow crowds at The Octagon Theatre this week.

The cast of Grass - a play by Oldham-based playwright, Mark Whitely - will perform over two days, starting on Wednesday.

The story follows the fortunes of lovable rogue Caz, played by Nik Higgins, who has been given community service for a string of petty crimes.

The hour-long production is directed by Judith Barker, who has appeared in a number of TV favourites including Hollyoaks and Waterloo road.

It debuted in the 24:7 theatre festival in Manchester earlier this year, winning critical acclaim.

After beating off competition from almost 20 plays, it has made a shortlist from which one production will be selected for a week-long stint at Manchester’s library theatre.

Grass plays at the Octagon on Wednesday and Friday. Tickets cost £10, and are available fromthe box office. The play contains some strong language.