A viral Teesside creator is using North East acting talent to spotlight local issues in a new play inspired by life in Middlesbrough.
Sophie Ashcroft, from Middlesbrough, has amassed over 10,000 TikTok followers through her local lifestyle content which covers trending spots, news and activities across Teesside.
Ashcroft, who describes herself as an aspiring actor and television presenter, has recently moved into theatre, writing her debut stage production Roots in early 2026.
She has said the play is loosely based on her own life in Middlesbrough- "full of comedy, drama and relatable family life."
Roots was first performed in Salford, Greater Manchester before Ashcroft decided to bring home with her to Teesside. (Image: @sophie.ashcroftxx on Instagram)
Roots ran at the King’s Arms in Salford, Greater Manchester, in April, but Ashcroft hopes to bring it to Middlesbrough in early 2027 because she believes North East audiences will connect with its local story.
Ashcroft is now seeking male actors from Teesside and the wider North East for her upcoming Middlesbrough production of Roots. In a social media appeal for talent, Ashcroft said anyone interested can get in touch and she has a variety of roles available.
In a video shared to social media in February, Ashcroft discussed the play's writing process, adding: "It's going to show a lovely side to Boro, because I honestly believe Middlesbrough is home to the friendliest people you will ever meet.
"But it's also going to show quite a harsh side to Middlesbrough as well. Every town has its bad, every town has its good."
The production promises gritty, authentic storytelling rooted in life in Middlesbrough. Ashcroft describes it as “Shameless meets Top Boy meets the royal family”.
The lifestyle influencer said: "I want to show that Middlesbrough is like any other town, it's just full of families, full of drama, and we're just trying to get by."
Its themes include family dynamics and other serious, relatable issues alongside more comedic moments.
Ashcroft has described the play as "rough, ready, comedic and all kinds of crazy." (Image: @sophie.ashcroftxx on Instagram)
Jessica Robson, founder of North East talent agency Tidal Talent, will direct the production, which is due to begin in early 2027 as casting continues.
Ashcroft said she is passionate about Middlesbrough and told followers that the town’s mayor had discussed the play with her and wished her well.
Applicants should email ashcroftsophie632@gmail.com with a headshot, CV, and short performance reel, if available.
Applicants should explain their local ties and why the story matters to them, and be ready to discuss their availability and rehearsal or performance commitments.
Under the agreement, participants will receive a percentage of profits once costs have been recouped from ticket sales.
More information is due to be released soon, with those interested urged to follow Ashcroft's social media pages for updates.