Watch out for the pouts

There is a big buzz going around the circles of actors and agents in Sydney as the Sydney Theatre Company starts auditioning for performers to take part in the new Residents group - which formally takes over from the Actors Company next year.

Coinciding with the auditions this week, Artistic Directors Andrew Upton and Cate Blanchett also happen to be 'throwing open the doors of The Wharf' for one and all to see.

Starting at 10am on Saturday, take just one guess as to the demographic who will be front and centre and dolled up to the nines during the open day.

It's only a hunch, but I reckon there is enough excitement, energy and chatter to expect that aspiring young actors will be out in force down at the Wharf this weekend hoping to rub shoulders with the newly appointed ADs.

This group will certainly not be taking part in any of the 'self-guided' tours, but will be taking poll position with obligatory 'look at moi' poses at any event that Blanchett and Upton will be in attendance. It's guaranteed that the hair will be out, the clothes carefully selected and the lippy shining as the aspirants strut their stuff.

It's quite an interesting programme if you are into the behind the scenes thing. There'll be group devised workshops, talks and forums by local stars of the Sydney stage and even a shuttle bus service from Wynyard - so they must be expecting a big crowd. (But they are screening that rather underwhelming film again).

The gaggle of interest in the auditions, however, could give the STC a little bit more than they bargained for.