AN amateur theatre group is looking for an actor with naked ambition.

Darlington Operatic Society is hoping to attract a younger audience with its production of The Full Monty this autumn, but has been unable to find a performer to fill the role of Horse, played by an older, black actor in the film.

The musical, based on the 1997 Oscar-nominated film, follows the story of eight unemployed steel workers in Sheffield who become a male striptease troupe. In the movie, Horse is played by Paul Barber, best known as Denzil in the BBC classic sitcom, Only Fools and Horses.

Although the operatic Society has had no shortage of young men willing to strip for the role, after several weeks of searching, they have been unable to find an actor to play Horse. The society fears it may have to resort to bringing in a professional actor.

Chairman Ian Whitfield said: “We chose The Full Monty as it will be a real challenge to the society, and we also hope to attract a younger audience.

“Rehearsals began in early May, but we have been putting the feelers out for a black actor since February.

“We thought our problem would be finding actors willing to go nude – but we have had an influx of young men willing to be in the show. We would dearly love to have a local amateur actor to play the role of Horse.

“It is a wonderful role to play that requires someone with excellent comic timing, a great voice, and who is not afraid to bare all for their art.

“We would welcome anyone who fits the bill to get in touch with us, to come along to a rehearsal and take it from there.”

Anyone who is interested is asked to contact the membership secretary, Greta Sanderson, on 01325-720556.

The Full Monty is at Darlington Civic Theatre from October 28 to November 7.

Book on darlington operaticsociety.org.uk