The search for a young Bristolian footballer who wanted to try their hand at acting in a big new play coming to the Old Vic has found its man.
More than 100 people answered the for a local young man to join the three-hand cast of a play called The Red Lion, alongside him and Bristol actor David Lloyd.
The young lad cast in the role of Jordan, an emerging footballer in non-league, is Thomas McGee, who will be making his professional acting debut in the role.
Born and raised in Patchway, he began playing football for his local youth team at the age of six, and graduated from the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts in 2017.
“Football and acting have always been huge passions for me and to make my professional debut in a show about football is unreal,” he said.
“I can’t wait to get started with Joe, David and Ed and everyone behind the scenes to produce something that will bring the worlds of theatre and football together!” he added.
Tom plays the young footballer, while Joe Sims plays the ambitious manager, and David Lloyd plays the idealistic older kit man, who clash over their young prodigy.
“We saw so many amazing and authentic Bristol actors for this role from all over the city,” said Joe.
“I’m so proud to announce Tom from Patchway as the new signing, just before the January transfer window closes,” he joked.
The play is running at the Old Vic in March.
Director Ed Viney added: “We saw a staggering amount of Bristol talent and Tom brought an agility and edge which is absolutely right for the role of Jordan.
“I'm delighted to be working with him on his professional debut. The Red Lion is a play I have wanted to direct for a long time.
“I know it will connect with audiences in Bristol and beyond. If you've ever played, watched or enjoyed the thrill of football, then you'll understand the beauty of sport and live performance,” he added.
