BUDDING actors will be able to tread the boards as an arts centre puts on its first in-house production.

The Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot will scour the county for local talent to perform in its productions of The Nutcracker and The Mouse King for Christmas.

Open auditions will be held on Saturday, June 24 at the centre and are open to the younger generation.

The production team is looking for boys and girls aged between eight and 16 years of age to form an ensemble cast.

They need to be able to dance, act or sing.

Hannah Mullan, marketing and audience development assistant, said: “This is a great opportunity for local children.

“The children will need to dance, act or sing in the audition and most importantly be confident, enthusiastic and a great team player.”

Auditions will be broken into three different groups, from 10.30am to 12noon ages eight to 10, from 1pm to 2.30pm ages 11 to 13 and from 3pm to 4.30pm ages 14 to 16.

Youngsters will have to register before auditioning and a form can be completed either online at: cornerstone-arts.org or by calling the box office on: 01235 515144.

The arts centre has also launched its summer season and includes performances of Macbeth, Opera Cocktail and Velvet Petal.

Arts centre director Darren Walter added: “The Arts have the power to inspire, engage and entertain. Cornerstone is your hub for culture.”