YOUNG performers in Hampshire who are aspiring to a career on the stage are invited to audition for a new musical, commissioned and produced by the Hampshire Music Hub.

But they only have until tomorrow (Friday, December 2) to do so.

Peter Edgar, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for education, said: “As the lead partner in the Hampshire Music Hub, the county council has an exciting role to play in bringing a new musical to life in the county.

“Our music projects aim to give Hampshire’s young people opportunities to discover how enriching music can be, take advantage of its educational benefits, and potentially find a passion for music that will last them for life.”

The new musical, called Ambition, will debut in Hampshire theatres next May.

Auditions are open to performers aged 16 to 19 who live or attend school or college in Hampshire (15-year-olds may apply if they are in Year 11 at school). They must register their interest in auditioning for a part by tomorrow.

Auditions take place on Monday, December 19, in Portsmouth, and will involve all-day workshops from 10am to 4pm.

The project will suit young people who have a talent for singing, dancing and acting, and are seeking a career in the performing arts.

Mr Edgar added: “Involvement in this new musical will require commitment but will offer wonderful benefits: the challenge of performing in multiple venues, working with different directors, meeting and learning from other students, and expanding repertoires.

“It will be a golden opportunity for those young people who have realised they want a career in performance and want to start making their dream a reality.”

Ambition has been commissioned from playwright Zella Compton and composer David Cefai of The Sea Slugs.

Telling the story of a boy band, Ambition asks what people are willing to give up in pursuit of their dreams. It follows the manager of five young men who are drawn together to form a pop group, and the story of their successes and failures, before tragedy strikes, leading them to question their role in celebrity, pop culture and the wider world.

Rehearsals will start in January and will take place one evening and one weekend day per week, plus full days during half term and the school Easter holidays.

Performances are booked on May 12-13 at The Berry Theatre, Hedge End, and the New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth. Two preview shows in schools are planned for late April.

For more details or to sign up for the auditions, e-mail [email protected].