OPEN auditions for a new stage play based on Wirral author Helen Forrester’s classic Twopence To Cross The Mersey take place next week.

The new play will visit four Merseyside theatres during its Spring tour when it takes to the road between March 10 and April 23, 2015.

It opens with a three-week run at Liverpool's Epstein Theatre from March 10-28, followed by visits to Southport Theatre from April 9 to 11. It's then onto St Helens Theatre Royal from April 14-16.

The tour concludes with a trip across the River Mersey to the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton from April 19 to 23.

Twopence to Cross the Mersey tells the true story of a young girl and her formerly wealthy family suddenly thrown into poverty during the Great Depression of the 1930s.

Leaving behind the nannies, servants and comfortable middle-class life in the South of England, they uproot their shattered lives and choose Liverpool as the place to start again to rebuild their dreams and fortune. Unbeknown to them however, a terrible shock awaits them.

Open auditions for the key role of young Helen Forrester will take place on Tuesday, December 2 at the Epstein Theatre on Hanover Street. Registration will open at 10.30am.

The production team are looking for the successful female actor to perform throughout the Merseyside tour.

Those interested in auditioning will need to be 18 or over to play the role of a 13/14 year old; 5ft 2in (maximum); and petite build. No exceptions will be considered.

The actor will be required to deliver a two-minute monologue which should include a very well-spoken English accent. During the audition process those short-listed will be given a scene to perform from the play.

A musical adaptation of the show had five hugely successful runs at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre. 

The new stage play version has again been written by Rob Fennah and will be produced by Pulse Records Limited in collaboration with co-producer Bill Elms. They are joined by Liverpool director Bob Eaton.

Rob Fennah said: "Twopence To Cross The Mersey is such a poignant true story and, although based in the 1930s, it tackles many scenarios people can still relate to today.

"It's the main reason why it has remained so popular.

"The new 'Helen' will be following in the footsteps of three other wonderful actors who have played the role in previous productions so our expectations will be very high.

"I strongly recommend that those thinking of auditioning should do their homework and read the book."

Co-Producer Bill Elms said: “As well as auditioning some well-known actors, both myself and Rob feel there is a wealth of talent here in our own region and this is a wonderful opportunity for any budding or trained actor to come along to audition.

"Finding the right person to play Helen Forrester is key in this popular production, and whoever is selected will work alongside a professional team of cast and creatives.

"It is a great role that demands a powerful performance, we are all very excited to find our new Helen."

For enquiries please contact info@billelms.com