Theatre Royal Plymouth is looking for local youngsters to join its cast of ‘Cinderella’ this Christmas, starring pop star Will Young.

The theatre is seeking 16 children in Primary School Years 3 to 6 to form two teams of eight for the pantomime.

Open auditions will be held at the TR2 Production and Learning Centre in Cattedown on Sunday, October 4, from 10:00 to noon, or Monday, October 5, from 16:00 to 18:00.

Children must live within 20 miles of Plymouth, be no taller than 4 ft 8 in and be competent in modern dance.

Those selected for the next stage will be invited to a final audition on Sunday, October 18.

Successful performers must be available for rehearsals during the week beginning November 23, followed by technical rehearsals and performances from November 30 through to January 3.

The opportunity is free, with travel bursaries available to help cover travel costs and meals provided on show days.

TRP producer Ryan Wilce said the junior ensemble was an important part of its annual pantomime and encouraged children who had not previously taken part to audition.

“We’re particularly keen to meet young people who have never been in our pantomimes before, and we encourage performers from all backgrounds to come and audition,” he said.

The production has announced Will Young playing the Fairy Godfather, alongside Ross King as Buttons, Dianne Pilkington as the Wicked Stepmother, Eve Shanu-Wilson as Cinderella and Michael O’Reilly as Prince Charming.

Charles Brunton and Stephen Guarino will play the Ugly Sisters, with Daniel Norford as Dandini.

Parents must complete a registration and consent form by 17:00 on Tuesday, September 29.

Those selected will also need to attend a licensing meeting at TR2 on Monday, October 19.

Further information and audition registration are available from Theatre Royal Plymouth, or by emailing producer Ryan Wilce at [email protected].