Star Adam won’t wing it in ‘Kes’

IN training . . . Adam Barlow learns how to handle a kestrel

Actor has lessons in handling birds of prey

THE star of the Oldham Coliseum’s latest play called on the help of a feathered friend to perfect his stage technique.

The Fairbottom Street theatre will stage “Kes”, an adaptation of Barry Hines’s classic novel “A Kestrel for a Knave”, from September 3 - 25.

The play tells the tale of Billy Casper, a Yorkshire schoolboy who is neglected and misunderstood.

Failed by society and detached from the world around him, Billy finds solace in the unlikely source of kestrel, Kes.

Nurturing Kes provides an escape from the mundane reality of life and allows Billy to discover his true identity.

As the relationship grows so does Billy’s spirit and he soon uncovers a peace and purpose to life which others around him cannot begin to understand.

In preparation for the play, Adam Barlow, who plays Billy, got some one-to-one lessons from falconer Phil Hudson, who works at Vale Falconry.

Phil visited the rehearsal studio at the Coliseum and gave Adam a lesson in handling birds of prey.

Adam then visited the Falconry to work with the birds in their natural habitat.

Although a real bird will not be used for the play, cast members thought it important to learn how to handle and react to a kestrel to give the audience a more realistic experience.

Girls wanted for roles in Coliseum’s panto

CALLING all budding actors, singers and dancers — the Oldham Coliseum needs you for this year’s pantomime, “Sleeping Beauty”.

The theatre is looking for two groups of eight girls to take to the stage during the classic seasonal show.

Girls aged eight to 15 who can sing, act and dance are invited to audition on September 19 at the Coliseum.

Succesful youngsters will work with the director, choreographer, backstage crew and actors to help put together the ever-popular pantomime.

Anyone interested should ask a parent or guardian to call 0161-624 1731 and speak to Anne-Louise to reserve a place. Auditions are in height order so callers should have height details ready when phoning.

“Sleeping Beauty” runs from November 20 this year to January 8, 2011.

Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 0161-624 2829 or online at www.coliseum.org.uk.