FOUR young performers, aged 16 and 17, have been chosen to join the cast of Honk!, the Christmas show at the Barn Theatre, Cirencester. They will be playing the ducklings and froglets in the award-winning musical, which runs from 21st November to 3rd January 2027.

Artistic Director Iwan Lewis announced the names of the four young performers who were selected after an open call for local talent – Toby Barton (17) from Swindon, Olly Ogbu (16) from Bristol, Niamh Brady (17) from Faringdon, and Penelope Steele (17) from Cheltenham.

He said: “We’re delighted to welcome Toby, Olly, Niamh and Penelope to the company for our Christmas production of Honk!. It’s so important to us that The Barn continues to create opportunities for young performers and give emerging talent the chance to thrive!”

Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story The Ugly Duckling, Honk! follows Ugly, a duckling who is teased by his siblings and friends because of his unusual appearance. When he becomes lost and finds himself in danger, Ugly embarks on a wild adventure of mistaken identities, unexpected friendships and close encounters as he sets out to discover where he belongs.

Written by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, Honk! has become a worldwide musical theatre favourite, with more than 8,000 productions staged internationally. The show has won multiple awards, including the Olivier Award for Best Musical.

Combining a heartwarming story with colourful characters, catchy songs and plenty of comedy, Honk! is a festive treat for the whole family, with a message about acceptance, belonging and celebrating what makes us different.