Aspiring young actors’ time to shine

Budding actors will have the chance to show their potential when The National Youth Theatre of Great Britain (NYT) heads to Canterbury next month.

As part of a nationwide search to find undiscovered talent, youngsters will have the chance to follow in the footsteps of alumni Orlando Bloom, Daniel Craig and Helen Mirren.

Auditions, which cost £46, will take place at the Gulbenkian on February 16, 17, 23 and 24.

They consist of a three-hour group workshop and an individual performance of a prepared speech from a published play, which must be learned by heart.

Successful applicants aged 14 to 17 will gain a space on NYT’S Junior Acting Course, while those aged 18 to 25 will join NYT’S three-week senior acting course or a four-week course.

The NYT does operate a bursary fund for those suffering from financial hardship. Applicants must apply at least 48 hours before the audition dates.

Audition places can be booked and purchased at www.nyt.org. uk.