Guide Young panto stars and Teenstars are sought

Round-up

Bognor Regis’ Alexandra Theatre is looking for boys to star in Peter Pan as it confidently starts to plan for this year’s pantomime.

Casting for principals has been done and the search is now on for four young local boys to share the roles of Michael and John.

Theatre manager Hazel Latus said: “The Regis Centre Alexandra Theatre and Spillers Pantomimes are on the lookout for new talent.

“This year’s family pantomime is the fabulous story of the boy who never grew up and we are inviting local children to apply for the roles of Michael and John. We need four children in total. In the first instance we are asking for video submissions.

When allowed to do so, we will hold recalls.”

Director Bev Berridge added: “We are really excited to be able to offer this opportunity to local youngsters. It is a chance for them to work on stage in a professional environment and be a part of a major production. We are looking for boys who have talent, commitment and stamina.”

Children must be available for the entire rehearsal and performance schedule.

Those wishing to apply should submit their video, along with an email confirming the child’s name, age, height and contact details, by the end of July.

Videos should be short

(20 seconds) and provide a clear visual of the child, who should be filmed stating their name, age, height and a brief explanation of why they should be considered.

Hazel and Bev are urging candidates to show “lots of personality.” You should send your videos to pantoauditions@btinternet. com. Bev added: “Both characters should be confident actors, with bright personalities and basic dance ability. You must be totally committed and available for all dates from November 29 to January 2.”

Michael: Maximum height 5’3. A young boy who is vibrant, dynamic and a bit of a ‘cheeky chappy’ – cute but talented, loud but controlled. Preferably an older by who looks younger than his years.

John: Older brother of Michael, serious and well spoken. A bit nerdy, he always knows the answer. Commands the stage.

Sussex contenders are sought as this year’s Teenstar competition goes live.

Spokeswoman Holly

nJones said: “Teenstar is a competition for teenage and pre-teen singers to showcase their talent to thousands of people and industry judges who are always looking for the next upcoming star. The competition attracts huge numbers of entries each year and it is now even easier to take part. Applications are now open online and auditions begin in June where performances will be live streamed across multiple platforms. This really is an opportunity not to be missed as contestants will gain valuable exposure and the winner will go onto win a cash prize of £5,000.”

Age categories are split to include pre-teens 12 and under and late teens 13-19 years old. Auditions will give contestants the chance to showcase their talent in front of industry judges. Enter at teenstarcompetition.co.uk.

Theatre manager Hazel Latus