AUDITIONS are to be held next week for budding actresses to perform in a production heading to the Theatre Royal in 2015.

Helen Forrester’s Twopence to Cross the Mersey comes to the venue next April, as it tours four theatres across the region.

And open auditions are to be held for the key role of Helen Forrester will be held on Tuesday, December 2 at the Epstein Theatre, Hanover Street, Liverpool with registrations open from 10.30am.

Actors need to be aged 18 or over to play the role of a 13 to 14-year-old at 5ft 2in (maximum) and petite build, with no exceptions considered.

Hopefuls will be required to deliver a two-minute monologue which should include a very well-spoken English accent. During the audition process those short-listed will be given a scene to perform from the play.

Helen Forrester’s Twopence to Cross the Mersey tells the true story of a young girl and her formerly wealthy family suddenly thrown into poverty during the Great Depression of the 1930s who uproot to Liverpool to start again before a terrible shock hits them.

Co-Producer Bill Elms said: “As well as auditioning some well-known actors, both myself and Rob feel there is a wealth of talent here in the region and this is a wonderful opportunity for any budding or trained actor to come along to audition.

“Finding the right person to play Helen Forrester is key in this popular production, and whoever is selected will work alongside a professional team of cast and creatives. It is a great role that demands a powerful performance, we are all very excited to find our new Helen.”

The play’s tour will open with a three-week run at Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre (March 10 to 28), followed by visits to Southport Theatre (April 9 to 11), St Helens Theatre Royal (April 14 and 16), and concludes with a trip across the River Mersey to the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton (April 19 and 23).