Three members of Derby Playhouse Youth Theatre will make their professional stage debut in a Shakespeare production later this week.  Jonathon Levers, Amy Scott and Grace Scott have been cast in 1623 theatre company's  Macbeth, which will open on Wednesday at Poole's Cavern in Buxton.

Ben Spiller, artistic director of 1623, explained: "After having facilitated workshops on The Tempest at Derby Playhouse Youth Theatre earlier this year and seeing Jonathon, Amy and Grace in The Tempest several weeks later, I was impressed by their talent and professionalism.

"They have been an asset to 1623 while we've been working on Macbeth over the last few weeks by bringing energy, commitment and enthusiasm to the project.  Bethany Sheldon, director of The Tempest , has been working with the cast on movement and puppetry, so there's a great sense of continuation for Amy, Grace and Jonathon."

Amy enthused: "I really enjoyed performing in The Tempest. Rehearsals were long, but there was a real sense of togetherness amongst the youth theatre by the time we were to perform. Being in Macbeth has provided me with the amazing opportunity to work with a cast of professional actors."

Grace agreed:  "I'm thrilled to be a part of the Macbeth cast. Being in The Tempest gave me a great understanding of Shakespeare, so I felt more confident with Macbeth.  This is my first professional show and it has made me feel that I definitely want to pursue a career in acting."

Amy and Grace will be playing two of the three witches in Macbeth and Jonathon is taking the role of Malcolm, the king's son.  Playing royalty is nothing new to Jonathon.

He explained: "I played Prince Ferdinand in The Tempest earlier this year and had a really good time working with the youth theatre.  I'm thinking seriously now of going to drama school once I've completed my studies at Landau Forte College."

Macbeth will take place from Wednesday October 31 to Saturday November 3.  All peformances will begin at 7.30pm, end at approximately 9.30pm and take place on promenade through the cavern; audience members are advised to wear warm clothing.  Call Poole's Cavern on 01298 26978 for tickets.  Booking is essential.

-Ends-

Notes for editors

• Derby-based 1623 performs Shakespeare in non-traditional theatre spaces and heads Shakespeare learning projects
• Past events have included the Glastonbury Festival, the Royal Shakespeare Company Fringe and BBC Gardeners' World Live
• "Uplifting ... unusual and entertaining" - British Theatre Guide
• A publicity image for Macbeth is available on request
• Contact Ben Spiller on 07726 628023 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to arrange press tickets
• For more information on 1623, contact Ben or visit www.1623theatre.co.uk