THE Mercury Theatre is looking for the theatre-makers of the future, on stage, and now off it.

Following the success of the Colchester theatre's Young Company in such previous productions as Quadrophenia, The Wall, and last year's Animal Farm, the ensemble are returning this August for their unique interpretation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

Aimed at those aged 16 to 25, there are more than 20 on-stage and off-stage roles available for the production, which will be staged in St Martin's Church in the centre of town.

While casting has already begun, there are some on-stage roles that are still on offer, the auditions of which take place on July 12 and 19.

But what's really exciting about this summer's show, an immersive, site-specific production, which will take the audience on a theatrical journey in more ways than one, are the opportunities to join the Mercury’s backstage teams, getting hands-on experience of working on a professionally staged production.

There are opportunities for assistants in costume making, set building, lighting and sound, stage management and also design. The Mercury is also looking for an Assistant Musical Director to bring live musical performance to the show. All of the assistants will work with their full-time professional counterparts from the Mercury’s staff. Deadline for the backstage roles are July 7.

Director Filiz Ozcan says: “We run these opportunities every year and so many young people have told us they’ve had a fantastic time which they’ll remember forever. It’s a rare opportunity for young people to work with the Mercury’s professional teams, having fun and learning new skills.”

Head of Learning and Participation Martin Russell adds: "We’re particularly appealing to parents from every background and walk of life to make sure their children know about this opportunity. It’s a chance to have fun in a professional and safe environment while making something that will be shared in front of over a thousand people – what a great thing to have on your CV."

The Mercury Young Company was set up in 2013 to tap into the young talent Colchester has in abundance and straight away it drew plaudits from critics and audiences alike with their punchy version of the Who musical Quadrophenia, directed by Tony Casement in an adaptation by Essex playwright Kenneth

Emson, who won the Mercury Theatre's inaugural playwright competition earlier this year.

In 2014 the company went for another visually stunning musical spectacle in The Wall but changed theatrical tack last year when Filiz took over the running of the group and they staged George Orwell's Animal Farm.

More information on all of the roles can be found on the Mercury Theatre website at mercurytheatre.co.uk - click ‘Get Involved’, or call Filiz on 01206 245474.

Romeo and Juliet takes place in St Martin's Church, West Stockwell Street, Colchester, from August 19 to 28 at 6.30pm with a matinee show at 3pm on both Saturdays and Sundays.

For tickets, priced £11.50, go on-line at www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or call the box office on 01206 573948.