New Line Cinema, the studio behind the Lord of the Rings trilogy, has launched a nationwide casting search in the UK to find a young actress to play the lead role of Lyra Belacqua in the highly anticipated feature film adaptation of Philip Pullman’s bestselling novel The Golden Compass.
British director Anand Tucker (Shopgirl, Hilary and Jackie) is set to direct.
According to the New Line press release: "Lyra Belacqua, is one of the most beloved and spirited characters in children’s literature, and like her creator, a born storyteller.
"The casting directors Fiona Weir and Lucy Bevan are looking for a talented young actress who embodies Lyra’s loyalty, bravery and mischievous nature."
The initial open casting calls will take place in Cambridge, Kendal, Oxford and Exeter during the first two weeks of April and are open to girls between the ages of nine and 13 who are accompanied by a parent or guardian and resident in the UK.
Applicants will be asked to complete a form and may be seen briefly by one of the casting directors. Children should come as themselves (no costumes or makeup allowed), dress warmly and be prepared to wait.
No previous acting experience is required. The Casting Calls, with queues open from 10am to 2pm and a 5pm close of the Call, will take place as follows:
April 4: Cambridge Corn Exchange,Wheeler Street, Cambridge.
April 6: The Castle Green Hotel, Castle Green Lane, Kendal.
April 11: Examination Schools, 75-81 The High St, Oxford.
April 13: The Great Hall, Stocker Road, Streatham Campus, University of Exeter, Exeter.
