BUDDING young thespians keen to display their talents are being offered the perfect forum thanks to a Blackwell-based actor.

Martin Copland-Gray, of Station Road, has established a drama group for young people aged between 11 and 16-years-of-age which meets in the village every Saturday morning.

Blackwell Methodist Church Hall, in Greenhill, is the venue for the group which meets between 11am and 12 noon.

It kicked off two weeks ago but is looking for more members.

Martin, a founder member of Walrus Productions which is performing Ben Elton's Silly Cow at the Palace Theatre in Redditch next month, is aiming to cover a host of techniques and disciplines including breathing and yoga, and will also have guest teachers from time to time.

He told the Advertiser/ Messenger: "We will work on ensemble acting and get the group to work together for each other on things like balance and text but make it fun as well."

Wide variety

The group is open to a wide variety of young people whatever their experience and it could be the first step on their ladder to fame.

Martin added: "If Walrus Productions is doing a play and we need someone of that age group, then members of the drama club will be the first choice."

The hour-long sessions costs £2 but Martin is hoping to extend the time once the group has expanded.

If you are interested just turn up on Saturday mornings or call Martin on 0121 447 8531.