THE Eastgate Theatre is the beating heart of creativity in Peebles and beyond.

And local people who use it for drama, comedy, dance, music, lectures, exhibitions and classes are seeking ways to save the community hub.

Tweed Theatre hopes to ignite local interest by putting together an ambitious community project involving actors and musicians from all across the Borders.

Chairman Paul Taylor said: “We have a rich supply of musicians from the many brass bands across the region, as well as adults of all ages who can act.

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“We are aiming to put on the renowned play Brassed Off in May 2024.

“This calls for a large cast, which would include brass band players in non-speaking roles, musicians who can act, actors who can play instruments and a mixed cast of adult actors.

“It’s a tall order as all of our recent productions have had a small cast, so we are calling on anyone who may be interested to come along to hear what it’s all about to read parts of the play or just to listen.

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“We need brass band players, actors and people who can help backstage.

“The film had Ewan McGregor, Sue Johnson, Stephen Tompkinson, Pete Postlethwaite, and Tara Fitzgerald is the main characters set against the miners’ strike and how it affected one community.

“If we can’t get enough interested people, then the project is doomed.

“We would like to think that as we did with Trainspotting some years ago that we see new and familiar faces coming through the door to find out what it’s all about.”

Readings and 'meet the team' will be held at the Eastgate Studio on Wednesday, October 11 from 7pm until 9pm.

Further enquiries can be made to 0743 2097 851.