Prep for play is under way

Andrew Grainger is rehearsing full time for a production

Auckland actors have a few weeks of long days ahead in the lead up to Auckland Theatre Company’s latest production.

Among them is Campbells Bay resident Andrew Grainger who plays Charles Hart in the production of Nell Gwynn.

The play focuses on 17th century theatre, when women were just beginning to be allowed on stage. Grainger was asked to play Charles Hart, an actor and Nell Gwynn’s acting tutor, because he’d done a lot of shows with ATC.

‘‘They always do consistently good quality shows and productions. They try spread across the board, if you like, from Shakespeare to musicals.’’

Rehearsals for the production have just begun, and Grainger had done research into the era and style of acting.

‘‘You do your own preparation, it’s nice to have everybody reading their parts. You get a better idea of what it’s going to be like,’’ he said.

Grainger said the actors had hit the ground running at rehearsals and encouraged everyone to attend the show.

‘‘It’s funny. It’s moving, as well, in parts. It’s rollicking, naughty at times, but also moving because of the relationships. It’s a good time for people across the board,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s fast and furious for kids.’’

ATC was also running a ‘‘30 under 30’’ promotion in which there were a limited number of $30 tickets available for those under the age of 30. Grainger said it was a great way to get young people along to shows.

‘‘You see how expensive theatre is ... Sometimes theatre’s forgotten by young people.’’

The play runs from August 15 till August 30 at the ASB Waterfront Theatre. Tickets are from atc.co.nz.