With the search for new acting talent for local troupe, The Blue Teapot Theatre Company, set to come to a close at noon on Monday, November 13, aspiring actors are being urged to throw their hat in the ring.
The award-winning Galway theatre company is looking to expand its talent pool by inviting aspiring actors with an intellectual disability to audition for a permanent place within the resident company of artists. This positive development is part of an overall expansion, aligned to the company’s Strategic Arts Plan (2023-2027 ).
Described as ‘theatre change makers’, Blue Teapot has been amplifying and nurturing the voices and talents of adults with an intellectual disability since 1996. Created from a community arts project led by the Brother of Charity Services, Blue Teapot has evolved into an award-winning independent theatre company, radically transforming theatre practices by ‘telling stories through the lens of disability’.
Rare opportunity
Speaking about the search, Artistic Director Petal Pilley commented, “This autumn, a rare opportunity has arisen to join our coveted, professional ensemble. We will be holding open auditions for a small number of places, casting the net wide in search of brilliant talent. Previous acting experience is not necessary; many actors come to their careers as diamonds in the rough looking for an opportunity to shine. The successful candidates will join our vibrant, experienced cohort of actors to develop and perform theatre on Ireland’s main stages and beyond.”
Company actor Kieran Coppinger agreed, saying, “Be yourself, be proud of the fact you have a disability. When you’re on that stage, it’s a whole different world.”
For almost thirty years, Blue Teapot has worked consistently to radically transform theatre practices by telling stories through the lens of disability, paving the way for inclusive practices to become the norm. Artistic achievements in theatre include Sanctuary, Dancing At Lughnasa and last year’s production of Into the Dark Woods written by the company’s own Charlene Kelly in a co-production with The Abbey as well as twice nominated for an Irish Times Theatre Award.
Stage and screenwriter Christian O’Reilly added, “This is a unique opportunity to join an extraordinary ensemble of brilliant actors and to develop artistically in an environment that is professional, supportive and fun.”
Prospering talent
With the search for local talent to join Blue Teapots full-time theatre ensemble creeping closer, suitable aspiring actors are being urged to apply to audition with the theatre company by expressing their interest either by email ([email protected] ) or by calling 091 520 977 (Mon to Thurs, 9am to 5pm ).
Auditions will be held in late November and early December. For detailed information, visit www.blueteapot.ie/audition The web page includes accessibility controls for the visually impaired.
