Auditions will take place on the evening of Wednesday 9 September 2026.
About the Show
When siblings Roberta, Peter and Phyllis are whisked away from London to a small house beside the railway in rural Derbyshire, their uncertain new beginning becomes a moving journey of friendship and discovery.
The Railway Children shows are from Friday 27 November, 2026 – Saturday 2 January, 2027.
About the Opportunity
We’re looking for enthusiastic local people to perform alongside the professional cast in The Railway Children.
Previous performing experience isn’t essential, but you’ll need energy, enthusiasm and a strong commitment to the production.
- Open to anyone aged 18+ living in Derby, Derbyshire or within 15 miles of Derby Theatre.
- This is a voluntary, unpaid opportunity. A daily meal will be provided during technical rehearsals.
- Successful applicants will take part in group drama and movement exercises at audition.
Important: Time Commitment
Being part of the Community Company is a significant commitment. Rehearsals will take place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings, from 27 October to 21 November 2026.
- Tuesday 27 October, 6-8pm
- Thursday 29 October, 6-8pm
- Saturday 31 October, 10am-12pm
- Tuesday 3 November, 6-8pm
- Thursday 5 November, 6-8pm
- Saturday 7 November, 10am-12pm
- Tuesday 10 November, 6-8pm
- Thursday 12 November, 6-8pm
- Saturday 14 November, 10am-12pm
- Tuesday 17 November, 6-8pm
- Thursday 19 November, 6-8pm
- Saturday 21 November, 10am-12pm
During technical week (w/c Monday 23 November), you will need to keep all days available. You may be required for daytime and evening rehearsals, with a detailed schedule provided closer to the time.
Performances run from Friday 27 November 2026 to Saturday 2 January 2027.
There will be three community teams, meaning you will perform approximately every third performance. Performances take place during the daytime and evening, with some weeks involving up to four performances.
Please note: Your performance schedule may include Christmas Eve, Boxing Day or New Year’s Eve, so please only apply if you are able to commit to performing throughout the Christmas and New Year period.
Auditions & Applications
Auditions will take place on Wednesday 9 September 2026. If shortlisted, you will be allocated an audition slot at either 5pm or 6:30pm.
To apply, please complete the application form below.
Applications close at 5pm on Monday 31 August 2026.
We aim to contact all applicants by Thursday 3 September 2026.
For more information, please contact producing@derbytheatre.co.uk.