AN AWARD-WINNING Halesowen comedy theatre group is desperate for new members to help tickle the ribs of audiences.

The Mayhem Theatre Group, which has a haul of All England Theatre Festival awards, needs new actors and actresses for new productions in February.

The group was founded 15 years ago from the remnants of the Halesowen Musical Society and performs at theatres across the Black Country.

Mark Moran, from the group, urged people to get involved.

He said: "We really need new members for our productions in February and it doesn't matter what age either as it is never to early or late to start acting.

"No acting experience is necessary as we believe anyone can act and we have had members who have been nominated for awards in their first year with the group."

He added: "We are a friendly group who have a lot of fun rehearsing and performing, being part of Mayhem Theatre Group is a great escape from modern life.

"We ensure there is a casual atmosphere at rehearsals and though we are an award winning group we are all about having fun."

The group has 20 members but are in dire need for cast members for three productions - A Dog's Life, The Sandlewood Mouse and The Fish Umbrella - which will be premiered in February.

Mr Moran, who wrote A Sandlewood Mouse, said: "These are all funny short plays and we will be entering them into awards, it would be great if we could get members of the same family to appear in The Fish Umbrella as it is about a family going out for a meal.

"We really need some youngsters to play a brother and sister as well."

In 2011 the group won a clean sweep at Worcester Theatre Festival winning Best Play, Best Comedy, Best Youth Actor, Best Music and the Overall Winner title.

The Mayhem Theatre Group rehearse on Monday and Thursday nights at the French Hen, Clent.

For more information phone Mr Moran on 07973 779 496.