Call out for Pit Men Singers

Are you aged 40+?
Do you have a passion for singing or are you part of a singing group?
Are you interested in performing on stage as part of a new theatrical production?

If you answered yes to any of the above, we would like to hear from you!

Gary Clarke Company is offering a unique opportunity for 4 Pit Men singers to make their own contribution to WASTELAND as it embarks on a national tour in Autumn 2019. WASTELAND is the highly anticipated new production from choreographer Gary Clarke and sequel to the multi-award winning production COAL.

"Brilliant" ★★★★★ (The Herald on Sunday)
"Blisteringly Fierce" ★★★★ (The Herald)

In 1994, hundreds of coal miners hung up their pit boots as coal mines all over the country were destroyed along with the tight knit working class communities that surrounded them. This thrilling yet deeply touching new production from acclaimed British choreographer Gary Clarke takes a close look at how 2 different generations coped in an era of radical upheaval.

WASTELAND brings together a company of 6 professional dancers, 2 live brass musicians, and 4 Pit Men singers from local community choirs, archive film footage, video projection and a specially commissioned sound score.

We are looking for 4 men aged 40+ who are currently members of community choirs or singing groups to play the role of ex-coal miners (4 local men recruited for each tour venue). No professional experience is necessary; however you should have experience of learning songs from memory and singing in unison. The role will involve some moving on and around the stage.

Singers will be supported throughout the process by acclaimed Musical Director Steven Roberts and Charlie Rhodes, choreographer Gary Clarke and professional dance artist Alistair Goldsmith. The team will work with everyone’s individual needs and abilities. Music and learning tracks will be provided four weeks in advance of the choir intensive rehearsals, where participants will work with the company to learn the show. Each singer will receive a food and travel allowance to cover rehearsals and performances.

Neil Abdy, who grew up in the mining community of South Yorkshire and whose father was a miner, was one of the team of volunteers who took part in a special preview at CAST Theatre in Doncaster in 2018. He said of his experience:

“Being given the opportunity to be part of this excellent work was unbelievable... everyone made us feel special and the friendship and camaraderie was excellent. I have a new spring in my step. If you have the opportunity to take part, definitely give it a go. It’s one of the best experiences you will ever have working with this wonderful team!”

Gary Clarke Company welcomes applications from all races, religions, backgrounds, sexualities and anyone who identifies as a man.

For any enquiries or to register your interest e-mail or call:

Laura Barber
Engagement Manager
Mob: 07391 621966
Email: engagementGCC@gmail.com

For more information visit https://wastelandtour.co.uk/engagement/call-out-for-pit-men-singers/