Youngsters can get the chance to tread the boards in this year’s pantomime.

The Queen’s Theatre in Billet Lane, Hornchurch is holding open auditions on Friday August 30 at the Mercury Mall in Romford for children aged eight to 15 to star in Dick Whittington.

The youngsters will form part of the theatre’s Young Company and will star alongside the theatre’s professional company of actors and musicians, Cut to the Chase.

Artistic Director Bob Carlton said: “The Queen’s panto is one of our region’s largest and most popular festive shows. The Young Company is a vital part of this and audiences love them. We think it’s very important to give young local talent a golden opportunity to perform on a professional stage and enjoy being part of the magic!”

Candidates must be able to sing and dance to a high standard, and preferably have some dance training. They must also have plenty of enthusiasm and commitment! Successful auditionees join three teams of chorus members, who share 60 performances of Dick Whittington between them from 30 November - 11 January.

Anyone interested must book their places by 12pm on Friday 23 August. Parents or guardians should email youngcompany2013@queens-theatre.co.uk stating the child’s name, age, date of birth, address and telephone number.

The Queen’s will be in contact with a time-slot and registration form to bring on the day. Auditionees must: bring 2 passport-sized recent photographs; prepare a chorus of a song to sing unaccompanied; wear suitable clothes to move about in; be prepared to stay for up to three hours; and be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Those shortlisted will be contacted to attend a recall audition the next day, on Saturday 31 August, at the Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch. Successful candidates must attend all rehearsals, which will begin in October and are usually held between 4 - 6pm on weekdays two or three times a week plus Saturday rehearsals.