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The Saddleworth Constable
by Martin Paul Roche
Audition
Monday 16th February 7.30pm
Wednesday 4th March 7.30pm
Run Dates September 26th - October 3rd 2026
Directed by Martin Paul Roche
The first play of 26/27 season from Saddleworth Players
Sandy is an artist who has fallen out of love with art but more specifically, her own.Steve is the retired local policeman who has recently discovered art having fallen out of love with life. When Sandy returns to her Saddleworth roots, she has no plans other than to get some respite from her fast-paced life. To make space and certainly not to make connections.
But a slow-paced life can sometimes be just as challenging. Because when you slow it down, the blurs are soon replaced with the sharply focussed reality of the life that’s been passing you by.
In returning to her roots, Sandy discovers hiding within the blurs, a sardonic, eccentric, but deeply private man who does not appreciate what he has to offer to the world and her. And in stumbling across each other they also rediscover two things we all need: a passion and a purpose.
‘The Saddleworth Constable’ is a simple, light hearted story about rediscovering the life you need, the love you deserve and the home you never lost... and leaving well alone which county you’re in. Oh, and cheese and onion crisps.”
Cast: 1M, 5F
Sandy: 50’s. Well spoken with more than a nod to her roots. Born in Saddleworth but rarely returns. Anne’s daughter. An art expert and previously a successful artist. Now living in Paris. Has had quite a public profile but it became too much and she avoids the public and the limelight. Consequently, protects her privacy and can be guarded which colours her character. Strong, intelligent, business like, sharp, good humoured when revealed. A loner and difficult to get to know. Not looking for love but warms to Steve as the plot develops and opens up to him.
Steve: 50’s. Retired local policeman. Straight talking, sarcastic, sardonic but good humoured. Immersed in his roots. Close to Anne and her friend of many years. He is a loner, intensely private and has recently joined the local art group. As with Sandy, he is difficult to get to know but he opens up to her. They are very different and yet have a synergy. Attracted from the off to her which develops with the story.
Anne: 70’s. Sandy’s mother. Retired, warm, friendly, open, but strong-willed and vocal when required. Close to Steve whom she has introduced to painting and brought into the art group which she runs. Has had a difficult relationship over the years with her daughter, but has been supportive and positive towards her. Whatever history they did have is not explored within the plot but alluded to.
Rachel/Sharon/Karen: 30’s/50’s. All three women are friends of Anne and Steve and members of the art group. Larger than life characters, full of fun and humour. They are protective of Steve and enjoy having fun at his expense and each others! All are equal in role size and collectively feature together in both acts.
The auditions will be in the form of an informal read through of the audition piece ( on link below). The full play should be read as well. You don't need to be a member of Saddleworth Players - but we'll happily sign you up! Membership is free).
Contact Martin Roche at saddleworthplayers@millgateartscentre.co.uk or on 07850 442625 for more information.
Feel free to shall this information with anyone who you think will be interested.
Playing dates September 26th - October 3rd 2026 with rehearsals starting in August on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays usually from 7.30pm, 7pm on Sunday
CLICK HERE FOR AUDITION PIECE THE SADDLEWORTH CONSTABLE
CLICK HERE FOR FULL PLAY COPY