The long search to find the right actress to play Grace Darling in Amazing Grace is over.
Catherine Dryden, 23, from Durham, will play the 19th century Northumberland sea rescue heroine who in 1838 helped rescue nine people after their ship had struck the notorious Harcar rocks, a part of the Farne Islands situated off the Northumberland Coast between Bamburgh and Seahouses. Tragically Grace died of TB in 1842 aged only 26, four years after her heroic deed.
Around 20 local actresses auditioned for the part and Catherine, a Musical Theatre graduate from the Newcastle College, won the role despite other strong candidates.
Trevor Wood explained: “We’ve been involved in dozens of productions but this was the most difficult casting decision we’ve had to make, which shows the depth of acting talent we have in the region.
“The story is about a film company coming to Northumberland to make a movie about Grace Darling so we were looking for someone who could not only play Grace Darling but the modern character of Grace Armstrong, who is the lead actress in the film-within-the-play. Catherine fitted both roles perfectly.”
Catherine’s first appearance on stage was with Chester-Le-street Theatre Group when she was 3. Her theatre credits include Dont Quote Me at Northern Stage, The Birthday Blaze at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal and The Wind Road Boys at Sunderland Empire.
She said: “I am delighted to be selected for this prestigious piece of theatre, especially playing the role of Grace Darling. She’s a terrific character with a lot of fiery passion and determination.
“Ed and Trevor have a fantastic reputation in the region and nationally and the play is great. It’s a brilliant opportunity.”
The other cast members are Sean Wildey, 30, whose previous work includes performing with the Northumberland Touring Company and Trevor Cuthbertson, 58, a native Geordie who recently appeared in Henry VIII at the Globe Theatre, London.
Director Emma Roxburgh said: “We have a strong cast, a fantastic script and the show will be a must-see event in the region.”
The three-week north east tour of Amazing Grace will begin with a world premiere at Alnwick Playhouse on Wednesday, October 17, as follows:
Alnwick Playhouse: 01665 510 785 Wednesday, October 17; Thursday, October 18 (evening and matinee); Friday, October 19
Consett Empire: 01207 218171 Saturday, October 20 (evening and matinee)
Hexham Queen’s Hall: 01434 652477 Monday, October 22 and Tuesday, October 23 (evening and matinee)
Gala theatre (Durham): 0191 332 4041 Wednesday, October 24 and Thursday, October 25 (evening and matinee)
Hartlepool Theatre: 01429 890 000 Friday, October 26
GatesheadOldTown Hall: 0191 433 6965 Saturday, October 27
Customs House (South Shields): 0191 454 1234 Monday, October 29 and Tuesday, October 30 (evening and matinee)
Blyth Phoenix theatre: 01670 367 228 Wednesday, October 31
Berwick Maltings: 01289 330999 Thursday, November 1 and Friday, November 2 (evening and matinee)
Playhouse Whitley Bay: 0844 277 2771 Saturday, November 3 (evening and matinee)
Tickets for Amazing Grace are on sale from the venues.
Amazing Grace is supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England