News Story
The Watermill Theatre are looking for three boys to play the role of Marky in its professional production of Jez Butterworth’s modern classic ‘Jerusalem’.
• Young people must be available between 15 Feb 2027 and 24 Apr 2027.
• The character's age is approximately six years old. Please note that due to licensing regulations, we can only accept submissions from young people who are at least five years old by 15 Feb 2027.
• Young people must be under 4’3 tall.
• No previous stage experience is necessary.
• All young people must live within an hour of Newbury.
• Young people will be present during scenes containing very strong language.
• Parents/legal guardians will be asked to act as a chaperone for their young person during performance times.
We are particularly keen to hear from young people from mixed-heritage backgrounds, including those with Black African and/or Black Caribbean heritage.
Role Description: Marky is the reserved six-year-old son of Johnny “Rooster” Byron, the main character. Marky comes to visit his dad at his woodland caravan, hoping that he will remember to take him to the county fair.
In order to apply on behalf of their child, parents/guardians should complete the following steps by 9am on Mon 16 Nov 2026.
- Complete a registration form here; and
- Email the following to casting@watermill.org.uk with a covering message including the young person's name and your contact details:
- An up-to-date photo of the applicant
- A video of 30 seconds maximum of the applicant reading a few lines of dialogue from a book of their choice.
Please note that videos can be filmed by phone, provided that the young person is clearly audible.
Shortlisted young people will be invited to an in-person audition at or near the Watermill Theatre between 4.30pm – 6.30pm on Thu 3 Dec 2026. Young people must be available on this date to be considered.
Rehearsal and Performance Dates
Rehearsals: Mon 15 Feb – Thu 18 Mar 2027
Preview Performances: Fri 19 Mar - Tue 23 Mar 2027
Performances: Wed 24 Mar - Sat 24 Apr 2027
Ideally, young people will have no pre-existing commitments during the rehearsal and performance dates. Please list any pre-existing commitments on your application form.
- Rehearsals will be a mix of weekends, evenings and an afternoon a week out of school. Rehearsals will continue in the daytime during previews.
- During performances, the role will be shared between three young people.
- Evening performances will be Mon to Sat at 7pm.
- Matinees will be on Thu and Sat at 1.30pm.
Parents will be responsible for transporting their young person to rehearsals and performances. There is no cost to take part; the young performers will be paid a small rehearsal and performance fee.
