ACTORS of all ages are being sought for a new community play The Kissing Ring, written and directed by Helena Fox of Everwitch Theatre.

The play, which was specially commissioned by Helmsley Arts Centre, is set in the atmospheric landscape of the North York Moors and is a haunting tale of love and superstition, interweaving recorded testimonies, folklore and traditions of the 1800s into a new narrative.

Helena, who has previously worked with National Theatre and BBC Film among others, said:“I have spent a lot of time over the past year researching testimonies by local people from the 1800s in order to get a picture of the customs and traditions of a culture that is now lost.”

Open auditions will take place at Helmsley Methodist Church Rooms on Wednesday, April 15, from 7pm to 9pm, and Helmsley Arts Centre on Sunday, April 19, from 11am to 1pm, with recalls from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

The project will involve Wednesday evening and Sunday rehearsals in Helmsley starting on May 13, with more rehearsals during the week of June 16 to 21. Performances will take place on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21, at Helmsley Arts Centre.

For details, phone 07746 034101, email everwitch@outlook.com or visit everwitchtheatre.wordpress.com