Reading & Auditions

Swan Auditions

Readings and auditions take place at the Swan Theatre. Readings are open to all, members and non-members alike, and provide an excellent opportunity for members to introduce their friends to The Swan and all that we do.

Following a play reading, audition pieces are given out. There are usually 2 audition dates, however if you are unable to make either date you may be able to arrange an alternative with the Director. Auditions are relaxed and fun and rarely involve the learning of an audition piece, although familiarity with it and some characterisation are expected. You will be informed as soon as possible if you have been successful in securing a part, usually once the whole play is cast.

It is not Swan policy to telephone people and invite them to audition so, if you would like to be in a show, please do come along to the reading and the auditions.

The rehearsal period is approximately 8 weeks of 2-3 rehearsals per week, although this may increase over the 2 weeks and the weekend preceding performance.

PRESSURE by David Haig, the Swan’s production for March 2026

PRESSURE by David Haig, the Swan’s production for March 2026

Directed by Mark Payne
Performance Dates: Monday 16th to Saturday 21st March 2026
Reading: Tuesday 9th December at 7.30pm in the Green Room, Swan Theatre
Auditions: Wednesday 17th December at 7.30pm and Sunday 21st December at 2.30pm in the Green Room, Swan Theatre
If you are unable to attend the reading or auditions, but would like to be considered for a part, please let me know, so that alternative arrangements can be made.
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Mark Payne, Director
markjude18@btinternet.com
Synopsis:
June 1944.
One man’s decision is about to change the course of history.
The Allied forces are poised for D-Day. The lives of 350,000 Allied troops are at stake. The decision whether to attack or not comes down to the most important weather forecast of all time.
Pressure is an extraordinary and little known true story which thrillingly explores the responsibilities of leadership, the challenges of prophecy and the personal toll of taking a stand.
“Funny, tense and deeply affecting” – Daily Telegraph
“A thunderous piece of theatre” – The Stage
Characters:
It is likely some of the parts will be doubled up. Ages are indicative only

  • Lieutenant Kay Summersby (age 25 – 40) Chauffeur and confidante of Eisenhower

  • Dr James Stagg ( age 40-55) The central character, British Meteorologist seconded to the RAF

  • Andrew (age 20 -35) Junior British Air force officer

  • Naval Meteorologist (20-30)

  • General Eisenhower (was 53 at D-day) Commander Allied forces

  • Colonel Irving Krick (30s/40s) Chief US meteorologist

  • Electrician (any age) (Can double)

  • Captain Johns (30s/40s) British Army Adjutant (Can double)

  • General Spaatz (40/50s) Commander US Air Force (Can double)

  • Sir Trafford Leigh-Mallory ( 50s) British Air Chief Marshall

  • Admiral Sir Bertram Ramsey ( 60s) Commander in Chief Allied Naval Forces (Can double)

  • Commander Colin Franklin – (any age) British Meteorologist (Can double)

  • Lieutenant David Battersby – (any age) British Meteorologist (Can double)

I look forward to seeing you at the reading.
Mark