Coventry’s Belgrade Theatre have announced a one-off special strategy to ensure their tradition of wonderful pantomime can go on this year, and so have put out a call seeking talented and enthusiastic local dancers to be part of the chorus of Beauty and the Beast.

Though the Belgrade’s chorus is traditionally made up of the region’s brightest up and coming child talent, with Equity’s permission, the venue have chosen to adapt their casting approach in light of the pandemic to ensure the safest return possible to live performance. To facilitate this, the company require all candidates to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, 18 and over and living in the Coventry or Warwickshire area with own transport.

Ideally the production is seeking three teams of four performers plus a team of reserves, welcoming applications from drama students and community theatre members – the panel want to see your energy and enthusiasm as well as top notch footwork!

To apply, prospective candidates must submit a self tape including a dance of no longer than a minute (time to show off your best tricks!) no later than 5pm on 20 August. In-person recalls will take place on Sunday 5 September at the Belgrade. 

Iain Lauchlan, Coventry’s favourite panto dame (as well as the writer and director of the Belgrade’s panto), said: “This is a great opportunity to join the Belgrade’s panto team and one which Equity has given us full support on. We will miss our usual youngsters, but look forward to welcoming them back the following year. We’re just very excited to be able to offer a LIVE performance this year.”