A YOUTH theatre company is holding a Search for Star auditions as it hunts for a lead actor to appear in its next show Oliver!

The Wear Valley Musical Theatre Company is seeking boys aged between eight and 12-years.

The group is to hold auditions on Sunday, January 5 at Shildon Methodist Church Hall as it looks to find youngsters to play Oliver Twist and the Artful Dodger.

A further ten boys are required to take on the role of Fagin’s gang.

The audition starts at 2pm and entrants should be prepared to act, sing and dance. Backing CDs or sheet music must be taken to the audition if entrants want to perform a particular song.

A piece of text will be provided for the acting section. The show is to be performed from Tuesday, May 13 to Saturday, May 17.

To register for the audition email your name, address, date of birth, contact telephone number and the name of the character to be tested for to info@wvmtc.co.uk.

Details can also be given to Elizabeth Crosby on 0790-9701-513. Visit wvmtc.co.uk/search-for-a-star for further details.