In September the Cowra Musical and Dramatic Society (M&D) is presenting the Vicar and from this weekend begins its search for cast members to fill some of the most iconic comedy roles in television history.

This stage adaptation of The Vicar of Dibley is based on the first two series of the show, which aired between 1994 and 1998.

The story focuses on the reception a female Vicar receives after being assigned to a small farming village called Dibley.

At first the villagers are horrified at having a female Vicar in charge of the vicarage

However, they eventually warm to her as she learns (and challenges) the long held traditions of the village, manoeuvring her way into the hearts of the parishioners and the community in which she lives.

Director Robyn Ryan, who was also in charge of the M&D’s two very successful stage adaptions of Fawlty Towers, is looking forward to the start of rehearsals.

“The Vicar of Dibley is one of those laugh-out–loud shows that are instantly recognisable to television audiences,” Ms Ryan said.

“To most people the Vicar will always be Dawn French, and we know we have to produce a show that is true to the original TV series, yet takes into account the restrictions of the stage.

“We proved with Fawlty Towers that Cowra audiences’ love high quality English television comedies and we’re sure they will be just as eager to see a live version of The Vicar of Dibley”, Robyn said.

Auditions for the M&D’s production of The Vicar of Dibley will be held at the Cowra Senior Citizens Rooms in Railway Lane (next to Woolworths) at 6pm on Sunday June 4, and the show will make its stage debut on Friday September 22.

If you are interesting in being part of what should be a great production or for more information regarding the upcoming production, or the Cowra Musical and Dramatic Society in general please contact Robyn or Lawrance Ryan on 6341 3337.