Tomorrow afternoon could be the most important theatrical occasion in Abi Uttley's young life.

The 21-year-old graduate drama student from Wibsey will be on stage at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre, taking part in an hour's workshop under the eyes of Pete Postlethwaite.

Four other members of the cast of The Tempest will be there too, working with six other graduates on extracts from five Shakespeare plays: As You Like it, Henry IV, Measure For Measure, Richard III and Twelfth Night.

"I have been given a scene from As You Like It. I am working with Samantha Robinson who plays Miranda in The Tempest.

"Pete Postlethwaite will be doing a reading with us. He'll be giving us tips as well.

"I am excited and a bit anxious as well because I know there are important people going to watch and I want to give a good impression," Abi told the T&A.

Nine graduates have spent the last fortnight working on the texts in preparation for tomorrow's 60-minute workshop. Two of them will be behind the scenes directing, the other seven will be on stage.

Abi, who went to North Halifax Grammar School, Bradford College and the University of Salford, where she got a BA Hons degree in the performing arts, intends to retain her gruff Bradford accent.

"A couple of the actors in The Tempest keep their accents and it brings it to life. I am keeping mine rather than being arty," she added.

Her public performances consist of a couple of appearances at The Priestley, the Alhambra Theatre Studio and at college.

Chris Meads, The Tempest's assistant director and the recipient of the Channel 4 directing award, explained the purpose of the Shakespeare workshop.

"I have worked on Shakespeare texts with young actors for the last seven years and there really is nothing like the thrill of witnessing them really own' the words and find confidence when playing it.

"For me, theatre is - or should be - a place dedicated to reflecting and helping to realise people's aspirations. It therefore seems appropriate that the Royal Exchange should be hosting a project that is a genuine exchange: members of The Tempest company sharing their experience with young graduates who will share their workshop experience with other young people."

  • Admission to the 3.30pm workshop is free but seats must be booked in advance by ringing (0161) 8339833