The search is on for talented local children and young people with a passion for the performing arts to take part in Star for a Night 2015.

Star for a Night is the annual talent show run by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council for 11 to 18 year olds, offering free expert tuition and culminating in the chance to perform live at The Harlequin Theatre, Redhill in April. This year’s auditions take place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 January at the Theatre.

Rehearsals in February and March see the council provide free, professional tuition from So You Wanna Be performing arts school and Urban Play dance classes in participants’ chosen field of singing, dancing or acting.

Final shows take place on 2 and 3 April at Redhill’s Harlequin Theatre, giving participants valuable experience of performing on stage in a commercial theatre to a paying audience. Two lucky participants will also receive one year scholarships to either So You Wanna Be or Urban Play.

Launching this year’s event, Cllr Mrs Rosalind Mill, portfolio holder for leisure and wellbeing said: "Star for a Night nurtures the talent of our local youngsters, encourages team-working and boosts participants’ self-confidence. It’s also great fun. So don’t be shy. It’s a friendly, supportive event – come along and take part. Be a Star for a Night!"

Star for a Night is perfect for young people who love to sing, dance or act and would like the opportunity to perform in a professional environment. They can audition with friends or solo and will then take part in rehearsals over several weeks with professional tuition before performing in two shows at Easter.