The Chesil Theatre, Winchester, presents:

Whipping it Up, by Steve Thompson, Directed by Lisbeth Rake

Saturday 5th December, then 7th - 12th December 2009 at 7.45pm, plus matinée at 2.30pm on 12th.

Audition Information

The Director writes:

This political black comedy by Steve Thompson is as topical as tomorrow's newspaper- although there are no claims for duck houses or moat cleaning!

It is the week before Christmas 2009 and the Tories have been in power for six months, after being in opposition for 12 years. With a majority of just three, the Whips' office is at full stretch, especially as they are already facing grumbling from backbenchers about the PM and dissent over the latest Bill.

Could this be the beginnings of a leadership challenge? The Whips employ every dirty trick in the book to keep the strays and rebels in line and outwit the  opposition. But they are in for a long night: boy scouts are rioting in Whitehall, the PM's plane is delayed and that pretty young researcher is not all she seems.

Cast

The Government

• The Chief, 60+, Chief Whip played by Richard Wilson in the London production. Elected 1979, so has experienced both power and long opposition. He is devious and cynical but utterly loyal to the party.
   

• Alistair, mid 40s, Deputy Chief Whip. He is ambitious, hard working, clever and a complete bastard.
   

• Tim, mid 30s, Junior whip who has a safe seat because Daddy donated a lot of money to the party. Still a bit naïve, he is tested to the limit and learns a great deal in the course of the evening.
   

• Guy, mid 30s a new MP who is trying to make his mark. He is eager to please but not at the expense of his private life
   

• Maggie, Late 20s early 30s on her security badge it says `Researcher' but her skirt is just a little too short .... This part requires the actor to change style completely half way through.
   

Opposition

• Delia, Deputy Chief Whip, Early 40s She is still adjusting to life in Opposition. A workaholic who can match all Alistair's dirty tricks and treacherous plans.

As with all Chesil productions exact ages are not as important as long as the difference between the characters is clear.

Mike Robinson is taking on his first play as Producer and to provide the expertise needed for all the Blackberries, mobiles and other technical devices.

Scripts are available from the.rakes@zen.co.uk or 01794 388245
 

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