Coming to the Gaiety Theatre in October 2025, this heartwarming and uplifting show is packed with the iconic hits of one of Britain’s most legendary boy bands. The Band is the ultimate feel-good musical, celebrating friendship, memories, and songs that defined a generation! 

The Band follows the story of five teenage girls in 1992 who are inseparable friends, united by their shared love for their favourite boy band. For these girls, “the band” is everything—it’s their escape, their passion and the soundtrack to their lives. However, life takes them in different directions and they lose touch with each other. 

Fast forward 25 years and the now-adult women reunite when one of them wins a competition to see their beloved band perform in Prague. Despite the years and the challenges life has thrown at them, their shared love of “the band” rekindles their friendship. Together, they embark on a hilarious and heartfelt journey of nostalgia, discovery, and reconnection. 

Throughout the story, the band (the boys) provides the soundtrack, performing iconic Take That songs like Never Forget, Back For Good, Shine, and Rule the World. The music intertwines with the narrative, representing the emotions and memories of the characters as they reflect on the lives they’ve led, the dreams they once had, and the people they’ve become. 

At its core, The Band is a story about friendship, the enduring power of music, and how our shared experiences shape who we are. It’s a joyous and poignant celebration of life, love, and the bonds that never truly fade.

"Today this could be the greatest day of our lives."

To find out more about the show we encourage you to watch the film as this portrays the story of the stage musical very closely.

Sponsor the band

As a registered charity (number: 406), Centre Stage Productions aim to provide the island with entertainment for all the family whilst nurturing local talent both on and off the stage. 

Choosing to sponsor a major event at the Gaiety Theatre demonstrates a commitment to the cultural and economic development of our island community, as well as promoting awareness of your brand over our 6 month rehearsal period and performance nights. It can also complement your company’s marketing and community involvement strategies and provide a unique opportunity for employee or client entertainment.

A sell-out performance at the Gaiety means your business’ advertising being viewed by approximately 700 people per show. Over the course of 8 performances, this could equal roughly 5,600 people! That isn’t even including all the show advertising and publicity (banners, social media, flyers, posters, public stalls/events, billboards, etc.) in the run up to the show. 

We are currently open to friendly discussions with any business, whether large or small, who may be interested in sponsoring our October 2025 production of The Band. 

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company

Aston International

KPMG in the Crown Dependencies

DW Cars Ltd

Creative Team

Director

Mark Hilton

On island, Mark most recently directed this year’s pantomime, Dick Whittington, following his co-directorial work on the highly acclaimed Jersey Boys at the Gaiety in July.

Professionally, Mark has an impressive track record, having directed numerous productions across the UK and beyond, including the international tour of School of Rock, the UK and Ireland tour of Jersey Boys, and the UK and international tours of Mamma Mia, to name a few.

Musical Director

Claire Temple

Claire has served as Musical Director for three of CSP’s past productions- The Addams Family, Annie, and Elf- and we’re thrilled to have her back with us once again.

As Head of Music at St. Ninian’s High School, she has overseen numerous school productions and has also brought her talents to the Gaiety Theatre with shows such as Avenue Q, Mulan, The Little Mermaid, and many more.

Choreographer

Molly Bowman

Molly trained at the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts College and most recently performed in the dance ensemble for DCU’s production of Chicago. She has previously performed in various on-island productions, including her memorable role as Frenchy in CSP’s sold-out production of Grease in 2022, and later as Assistant Choreographer for Elf the Musical. We’re thrilled to welcome her as she steps into the role of Choreographer.

Assistant Director

Peter Shimmin

Peter trained at the Arts University Bournemouth and has performed in many shows both on-island and further afield over the last 20 years, including Joe Pesci in Jersey Boys, Gratiano in The Merchant of Venice, and Harry in Kinky Boots. Following his excellent work as Assistant Director for Elf the Musical in 2023, we’re delighted to welcome Peter back in the same role for this production.

Lighting Design

Neil Dolman

Sound Design

Alex Linney

Stage Manager

Alex Armstrong

Assistant Stage Manager

Kelly Firth

Head of Wardrobe

Nora lean & Sarah Buss

Head of Hair & Makeup

Judith Fullerton

Props Team

Ben Gale & Sandy Shimmin

Artwork & Design

Kelly Firth

Head Chaperone

Angela Gerrard & Stacie Murphy

Please note: Auditions are open to individuals currently in school year 11 and above, with no upper age limit (this means you will be out of compulsory education by September 2025, and have left school, or are moving to Sixth Form/College).

Audition materials are provided for each character below, including vocal track guides. Auditionees are encouraged to listen to the original versions of songs too to get a feel for these. Further information about dance auditions will be provided to you after submission of your application.

the band (five Boys)

We’re searching for exceptional male singers with strong harmony skills, vibrant pop energy, and the ability to capture the charisma of a boy band. Think Take That in their prime—slick moves, killer vocals, and a magnetic stage presence. This group will perform the iconic Take That hits and serve as the ever-present soundtrack to the girls’ story.

young girls (late teen characters)

We’re looking for energetic, vibrant young female performers who are strong actors and good movers to play Rachel, Zoe, Claire, Heather, and Debbie. These characters are full of life, each with a distinct personality that reflects their teenage dreams, insecurities, and friendships. This is a high-energy group that must convincingly portray the joy and intensity of being a teenager obsessed with a boy band.  

older girls (adult counterparts)

Rachel, Zoe, Claire, and Heather: these roles require strong character actors with excellent emotional range. The older women’s story is about reconnecting with who they once were, rediscovering their friendship, and embracing the nostalgia of their youth. Whilst they don’t need to be dancers, they must bring warmth, depth, and humour to their performances.

the ensemble

The ensemble in The Band play a vital role in creating the world of the show and bringing the story to life. Whilst this is a small ensemble, every member will have multiple opportunities to contribute, taking on a variety of supporting roles such as parents, teachers, students, fans, and more. These roles provide essential context and energy to the scenes, ensuring the production feels dynamic and realistic. 

The ensemble will feature in key musical numbers, particularly those that require a larger community feel, such as school scenes or when the action moves to Prague. Whilst some numbers will focus purely on The Band for emotional impact, there will be other opportunities where the ensemble will enhance the staging, adding movement and atmosphere to the performance. We are keen to work with our cast to determine the best way to integrate the ensemble throughout the show and ensure that everyone has meaningful involvement. 

For those considering auditioning, the ensemble offers a great opportunity to play multiple characters, be involved in some fantastic group numbers, and help shape the world of The Band.

detailed character breakdown

Rachel (young)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late Teens

We hear the story mainly through Rachel, the band are an important part of her life as she navigates her parents arguments as a teenager. Optimistic, warm-hearted, and loyal. She’s the emotional glue of the group.

Zoe (young)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late Teens

The clever one, the one that’s going to go to University. Slightly reserved and out of the group. A book-worm but with a sharp wit.

Claire (young)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late Teens

Athletic, training to be a diver. Queen of deadpan. Slightly more reserved but with a quick tongue. Deeply caring.

Heather (young)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late Teens

The life of the party, always ready with a joke. The one that gets all the boys. Confident and outgoing, the charity-shop-Vivienne Westwood. Wants to be a fashion designer.

Debbie (young)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late Teens

The dreamer with her head in the clouds.  Rachel’s best friend. Outgoing and full of life, she gets the girls tickets to see the band at the Apollo.

Auditionees are permitted to sing the audition piece the octave down, if required.

Rachel (older)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late 30s – Early 40s

Reflective and resilient, but emotionally scarred. She wins the ticket to see the band which brings the girls back together. A buried treasure in her early 40’s, happily with long term partner Jeff, we still hear the story mainly through Rachel.

Zoe (older)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late 30s – Early 40s

Successful but struggles with vulnerability and her role as a mother. Still the same characteristics as her younger self, but a book-worm no more, has not gone to university, and has four almost grown-up children and is a stay at home mum.

Claire (older)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late 30s – Early 40s

A total opposite to the athlete she once was, and nostalgic for her youth.

Heather (older)

Identifies as: Female
Playing age: Late 30s – Early 40s

Still her outgoing self, has high-street flair, but in a surprise twist is no longer into boys and has since married a woman! Bold and unapologetically herself.

Auditionees are permitted to sing the audition piece the octave down, if required.

the band (five males)

Identifies as: Male
Playing age: Late Teens – Early 30s

A dynamic boy band full of charisma, charm, and energy. Each member brings a unique quality to the group, from heartfelt romanticism to playful humour and steady dependability. Together, they embody the essence of a classic pop group, with exceptional harmonisation skills, polished stage presence, and the ability to connect with audiences.

Boy 1 sings lead vocal for ‘A Million Love Songs’, ‘Patience’, ‘Greatest Day’
Boy 2 sings lead vocal for: ‘Never Forget’
Boy 3 sings lead vocal for: ‘The Garden’
Boy 5 sings lead vocal for: ‘Shine’

Auditionees will learn the Boys Audition Dance at the meet and greet workshop.

Boy 1

boy 2

boy 3

boy 4

boy 5

Jeff

Identifies as: Male
Playing age: Late 40s – Early 50s

Rachel’s partner. A kind and supportive man who is surprised by her obsession with her youth and “the band”. A sweet guy nearing 50, slightly out of condition.

Dave

Identifies as: Male
Playing age: 20s – 50s (dependant on scene)

The 6 Daves are a recurring comedic element in the show, appearing as different characters throughout the story: Caretaker Dave, Bus Driver Dave, Budget Air Dave, Czech Policeman Dave, Czech Bus Driver Dave, and Airport Cleaner Dave. These roles require excellent comedic timing, versatility, and the ability to create distinct personalities for each Dave.

Auditionees will needs to listen to ‘Hold Up A Light’ for the rap – although it isn’t rapped on the original.

ensemble

Identifies as: Any
Playing age: Any

Members of the ensemble will play various smaller roles, including Jeff and Dave, and contribute to the storytelling by appearing as parents, teachers, fans, and other characters.

Audition weekend

Fri 11th - Sun 13th April 2025

Rehearsals

May - October 2025

Theatre tech

Sun 5th - Thu 9th October 2025

show dates

Fri 10th - Sat 18th October 2025

meet & greet / workshop

All auditionees are invited to attend a ‘meet and greet’ on Sunday 6th April, 3pm – 5pm, at MoveIt Dance Studios (Hutchinson Square, Douglas, IM2 4HP).This is your chance to meet the committee, the on-island production team, and learn more about the show. You will also have the opportunity to run through the audition dance and singing pieces with the team to help build your confidence.

Those auditioning for ‘the boys’ will be asked to stay for an audition workshop to learn the audition dance, sing through the audition material (including harmony work) and help build confidence in movement and choreography. No preparation is necessary for this workshop—just come along to find out more, have fun and get into the groove of the show.

audition weekend (loch promenade church)

Friday 11th april - dance call/ensemble auditions

The audition weekend kicks off with a dance call for all auditionees, except those auditioning for the boys. This is a chance for you to showcase your movement skills, energy and stage presence. The routine will be shared with you before the audition ensuring you have time to familiarise yourself with the material. However, don’t worry – there will also be time to quickly go over it in the room to ensure everyone is on the same page! Expect a fun, high energy session with all the laughs and grooving! What matters most is your enthusiasm, willingness to learn and the energy you bring to the floor. We want to see your personality shine!

Ensemble singing auditions will also take place on Friday evening. Auditionees will be asked to sing the ensemble pieces in small groups.

saturday 12th april - individual auditions

Individual audition time slots will be allocated and emailed in advance. These will consist of solo singing and acting auditions, where you will perform your chosen song and dialogue excerpt. This is your opportunity to showcase your vocal ability, character interpretation, and stage presence. You do not need to be off script however we expect all auditionees to be familiar with the character they are auditioning for.

sunday 13th april - callbacks

Some auditionees may be invited back on Sunday morning for further auditions, which could include scene work with other performers, additional singing, or revisiting choreography. 

All auditioning for The Band will be required to attend a final singing and dancing workshop on Sunday afternoon/evening. This session will focus on vocal harmonies, movement, and group chemistry. 

Please note, callbacks allow us to explore dynamics between cast members and ensure the right casting decisions are made. Please note that not receiving a callback does not mean you won’t be cast in the show.

video auditions

If you are unable to attend the in-person auditions, we will be accepting a video audition as an alternative. 

To be considered, you must submit your audition video via email to centre-stage-productions@outlook.com by Friday 4th April 2025. 

Your video audition should include:
Singing – Perform the set audition song provided.
Acting – Perform the set dialogue excerpt (ask someone to read in)
Dance – Learn and perform the set dance routine from the instructional video we will release in advance. 

We encourage you to take the time to learn and rehearse these pieces before submitting your video. While in-person auditions are preferred, we understand that some may have unavoidable commitments. If you need to submit a video audition or require any accommodations, please get in touch with us as early as possible. Further submission details will be provided upon request.

inclusion

At Centre Stage, we are committed to making auditions as inclusive and supportive as possible. If you have any specific requirements or need adjustments to fully participate in the audition process, please let us know when you register. 

If you have any access requirements for the audition process, rehearsal process, or performances, please let us know and we will make any reasonable adjustments. We’re happy to work with you to ensure you feel comfortable and can perform at your best. 

Actors of all gender identities are very welcome to audition for any role. Please note that we are not able to transpose any vocal lines and so would require performers to sing in the original keys written in the score. We are also not able to modify any of the text of the libretto including changing genders so you must be comfortable portraying these as written. 

We will consider performers with a disability for any role and would actively encourage disabled performers to audition. We have no preconceived ideas as to the ethnicity of any role and ethnicity will not be a factor in any casting choice.

If you are successfully cast, it is important that you be available for rehearsals, unless prior commitment has been given. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be provided after casting. The venue for rehearsals is Onchan Methodist Church.

Attendance at all tech/dress rehearsals (5-9 October) and performances (10-18 October) is mandatory.

Monday 5th may

The boys making up ‘the band’ will begin rehearsals on 5th May. Rehearsals will usually take place twice a week (on Monday and Wednesday) from 7:30pm to 10pm.

Monday 9th june

The rest of the cast will start to attend rehearsals from 9th June, twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays (usually from 7.30pm - 10pm), beginning with a full read-through and sing through of the show. Additional Sunday rehearsals may be added from September.

BLOCKING DATES

Director Mark Hilton will be visiting the Isle of Man for blocking sessions. The dates pencilled for blocking are (subject to change:
Mon 9th - Fri 13th June
Mon 21st - Fri 25th July
Mon 4th - Fri 8th August
Mon 1st - Fri 5th September
Mon 29th September - Fri 3rd October

bECOMING A MEMBER

To participate in The Band, you must become a member of Centre Stage Productions (CSP), as we are a registered charity and must comply with the Charities Registration and Regulation Act 2019. 

Membership fees contribute to the society’s operational costs, including insurance, governance and community activities. In addition to the membership fee, a rehearsal fee is required to help cover the costs of hiring rehearsal spaces, equipment, and other associated production expenses. 

MEMBERSHIP FEES:

rehearsal fees:

Adult Membership Fee: £30
Student Membership Fee (Under 18): £15
Deadline for payment: 10th June 2025

Adult Rehearsal Fee: £30
Student Rehearsal Fee (Under 18): £15
Deadline for payment: 1st September 2025

Failure to pay either the membership or rehearsal fees by the required deadlines may result in your removal from the production, as the society must adhere to its legal and insurance obligations. For more information, visit our Membership page.

code of conduct

As a CSP member, you’ll need to abide by our policies, including our Code of Conduct, which outlines the standards of respect, teamwork, and professionalism we expect from all participants. This is to ensure that rehearsals and performances are enjoyable and productive for everyone. 

You can find our Code of Conduct and policies by clicking here. Please take a few moments to review them before auditions, as they are key to creating a positive experience for everyone involved.

Please follow the link below to complete your audition application form. Forms must be submitted by Monday 7th April.
Please note: there is a £5.00 non-refundable audition fee to be paid at the audition weekend.

You should receive an automatic email response after submitting your form (please be sure to check junk/spam mail).

Audition materials, including vocal tracks and scripts, can be downloaded from the ‘Roles’ tab under the character breakdown for your chosen role. Further information about dance auditions will be provided to you after submission of your application.

If you have any questions or concerns at all, please feel free to get in touch via: centre-stage-productions@outlook.com

AUDITION FORM

YOUR COMMITMENT

By auditioning for The Band, you are committing to being a dedicated and reliable member of the cast. Theatre is a team effort and every actor plays an essential role in making the show a success. When you miss rehearsals, it doesn’t just affect you—it impacts the whole cast and can slow down progress for everyone. That’s why it’s so important to be upfront and honest about your availability from the start. 

We understand that life is busy, and everyone has commitments outside of the show. That’s okay—but it’s vital that you list all known conflicts on your audition form – including weekends. Holidays, work trips, weddings—if you know about it, let us know. Conflicts not disclosed in advance may impact casting decisions, and repeated absences could result in you being removed from the production. 

If you’ve got other shows, gigs, projects, or activities on the go, we ask you to please think carefully about whether you can give The Band the time and energy needed. We’re looking for cast members who can give their commitment to rehearsals for the good of the entire production.

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