A search to find the best in budding talent has been launched this half term, which will see aspiring young theatre performers battle for parts in a new musical.

The Over the Rainbow-style auditions will hunt for 14-18 year olds to appear in the Midland’s premiere of Don’t Turn My Life Into a Musical: The Musical, a brand new musical about celebrity, gossip and teenagers, written for young people.

The production, due to be staged at the professional theatre-in-the-round, will be only the second time the show has been performed.

Auditions will take place at the end of half term on Sunday 18 April, with the production taking to the stage in August.

A panel of judges will include composer and award-winning musical director, James Atherton, whose credits include work with Channel 4, ITV and The Royal Opera House. The show’s composer, he will also be joining the creative team as Musical Director.

Says Youth Theatre Director, Cathryn Baker: “What’s brilliant about this musical is that it has been written especially for young people, so it’s fresh and new and about their lives. It plays on the idea that we glamorise people’s problems through things like facebook and gossip mags.

It’s a really exciting chance for budding actors, singers and dancers to work with a top team of professionals.”

“We can’t wait to showcase some of the region’s top young talent. We want to make this Midlands premiere a show to remember.”

Do YOU have what it takes to perform on a professional stage? Are YOU age 14-18?

Auditions will be held at the New Vic Theatre on Sunday 18 April. All those who audition must be available for rehearsals on Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as the final rehearsal period and performance dates, 23 – 27 August and 30 August – 4 September.

For more information call Lynn Parry on 01782 717954 ext 356 or email lparry@newvictheatre.org.uk