YOU might think the cast and crew of New Earswick Musical Society would be taking a well-earned rest after presenting Mack And Mabel at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre this month, but no so.

The society is now turning its attention to casting the roles of Oliver and Nancy and many other parts for next spring’s production of Lionel Bart’s Oliver!

Lionel Bart’s musical will be staged at the same York theatre from April 22 to 25 next year at 7.30pm nightly plus a 2.30pm Saturday matinee and the recruitment search is under way for both familiar and fresh talent.

Publicity coordinator Jane Holiday says: “We’re looking for new members to join our society to perform in this much loved musical, so we’re having a open afternoon for adults and children on Sunday, December 14 at New Earswick Methodist Church Hall at 2pm. Just come on down and find out about the show and sing through the songs and dance a routine or two.

“It will be a fun-filled, informative workshop afternoon, where you will meet our director, Ann McCreadie, and the production team, and auditions will then take place in January 2015 at New Earswick Folk Hall, York. You will be given your audition slot at the workshop.”

The society requires 20 boys and girls to form the ensemble.

“I would encourage any aspiring Olivers and Artful Dodgers to come along to the open afternoon, which promises to be light-hearted and fun, giving the boys and girls a taste of what it’s like to be part of a huge production like Oliver!,” says Jane. “This is your chance to consider yourself one of the family.”

Oliver!, one of the most beloved British musicals, brings Charles Dickens’ timeless characters to vivid life with such songs as You’ve Got To Pick-A-Pocket Or Two, I’d Do Anything, Oom Pah Pah, As Long As He Needs Me and Who Will Buy.