The information below is an extract from a set of notes which experience has taught us is appreciated by those thinking of applying for an audition to become an acting member. The full set of these notes, together with an application form for acting membership is available, on request, from the theatre.

Because we are anxious to maintain the standard of acting that has helped to earn The Questors its high reputation. We insist on high standards in everything we do. We want our actors to be actors of quality. We do not believe that auditions will always enable us to judge this, but we do not know of any other means that is feasible. Your audition is likely to show us what we could expect from you as an actor if we were to accept you.

Unless you have some reasonable experience, or some training, the answer is probably "no". Acting is a skill and whatever natural talent you start with has to be developed. We do have a Student Group for newcomers to acting or those who want to have more training. Nevertheless, if you show the kind of ability we are looking for then lack of experience or training is not a bar.

If you are looking for a hobby to keep you interested for a couple of nights a week, again the answer is "no". Being a Questors actor involves time, and hard work and dedication - but it is, of course, worth it!

If you've had some relevant acting experience or training, if you're serious about acting and want to extend your experience, the answer is "yes". Contact the Auditions Secretary (opposite) at The Questors and ask for an application form.

Usually once a month (except August) on a weekday evening in a reasonably sized rehearsal room. You will be asked to come at 7.30pm and to stay if necessary all evening (i.e. until 10.15pm).

A panel of experienced Questors directors and actors.

You are asked to prepare two short pieces of your own choice, each lasting no more than 2-3 minutes.

Your two pieces should be contrasting in some way, so as to show different aspects of your acting. The contrast may be, for example, one of period, style, verse and prose or character type. Each speech should be about two minutes in length and be the speech of one character. If necessary, a member of the Auditioning Committee will give you the odd cue-line, but it is quite permissible to "tack" speeches together, providing that this makes sense and has genuine continuity. We do not advise you to imagine the cues in a conversation and leave the appropriate pauses. You should also know the play which the speech comes from, so that you have a broader idea of the character and situation than that provided merely by the speech.

You should be clear about the physical conditions you wish to play in - there will be a limited assortment of furniture available (mainly tables and chairs) and a reasonable amount of space. You are not expected to address your speech to the Committee (who are seated behind a table) unless it is valid to do so in the context of the play. Remember that movement can be a significant factor in an audition. We don't expect you to audition in any kind of costume unless you regard it as absolutely essential to your piece.

Remember, even if you are not accepted for the main acting group, if you like the look of The Questors there are many other ways you can become involved.