49,039 is the total word count of the Soho Cinders script. This by itself is a daunting number but when you take into account that the cast of Merlin Theatre Productions ambitious fundraising show have just 24 hours to present those words to a paying audience, you begin to see why this is not a challenge for the faint hearted.
On June 9th the cast of 18 will descend on the Merlin Theatre in Frome with only two aims in mind, firstly perform a show to raise funds for the running of the Merlin Theatre and secondly, survive the 24 hours.
The cast is made up of both new faces and Merlin Theatre Productions longest standing members, including Ryan Hughes who takes on the lead role of Robbie in Soho Cinders.
Ryan said, “The Merlin Theatre provides fantastic shows and opportunities for everyone in the town and surrounding areas, so when the opportunity presents itself to play a part in helping the Merlin to continue providing these shows then it’s a no-brainer, especially when it’s performing in a show that I personally love.”
The show’s director, Scott Ward, describes the 24 hour show process as being unlike anything he has been a part of before.
“Ultimately there is panic involved, whether you want there to be or not,” he said. “You have minimal contact with the cast and hope that they have learnt their lines because if they haven’t when you get to the 24 hour period you can’t get started with blocking out scenes, or choreographing.
“There is a huge amount of trust involved, thankfully I know that the cast are as dedicated as myself and the rest of the creative team and want to deliver something special that raised important funds for the Merlin Theatre.”
Scott is supported in this challenge by musical director James Finbow, and choreographer Daisy Mercedes who makes her Merlin directorial debut later in the year when Merlin Theatre Productions brings the classic Guys and Dolls to Frome.
Soho Cinders is a modern reimagining of the timeless fairytale Cinderella but with wickedly funny songs and a tongue in cheek view on modern politics this show is the prefect grownups’ night out.
Tickets are on sale now at www.merlintheatre.co.u k for £10.50. Soho Cinders will be a one night only performance on June 10th at 7.45pm for more information go to www.mtp24. co.uk.