Gary Barlow is considering an actor from his home town for a part in his new musical, The Girls.

Oliver Hale, 17, who has already made a number of appearances in amateur productions in Frodsham, is competing against other candidates from the North West.

The Girls, based on the story of Calendar Girls, and written by Alvanley-based playwright Tim Firth, premieres at The Lowry in Salford on January 13 next year.

Last year Oliver played the lead role in Frodsham Panto Group’s staging of Peter Panto, and has also performed with Chester’s Tip Top Productions company.

The 17-year-old is auditioning for the part of Tommo, the son of Miss September.

Like a virgin

A show spokesman said: “Tommo is a great lad; a sportsman, good looking, cocky and girl mad, but unfortunately still a virgin.”

Co-writers Barlow and Firth, who both grew up in Frodsham and have been friends for 25 years, said they wanted a ‘proper Northerner’ for the role.

More than 80 auditionees attended The Lowry on June 18, dressed in school uniform to impress producer David Pugh and director Roger Haines.

Barlow, currently performing with Take That at the Manchester Arena, will watch the auditions on video and help select the successful candidate, with more details released next week.

The Girls is inspired by the true story of a group of Women’s Insitute members who decide to appear nude for a charity calendar.

In memory of one of their husbands, they aimed to raise funds to buy a settee for their local hospital.

The musical comedy shows its effect on their families, life in their Yorkshire village, and how a group of ordinary women achieved something extraordinary.

For more information on The Girls and to book tickets, visit www.thelowry.com.