BUDDING actors and actresses are being invited to the Macron Stadium for open auditions as the Big Bolton Panto searches for its next star.

Returning for its second year at Bolton Whites Hotel, the Big Bolton Panto will this year tell the story of Dick Whittington and his Pirate Adventure.

And producers are searching for a local star to fill the role of King or Queen Rat who will perform alongside television favourite Keith Chegwin and Roxanne Pallett of Emmerdale and Strictly Come Dancing fame.

The auditions, which are open to both professional and non-professional talent, will take place on Saturday, May 28, at Bolton Whites Hotel from 11am.

Hopefuls are to perform a two to three minute monologue that they think best portrays King or Queen Rat to a judging panel which will include Roxanne herself, in the hope that they will win the role of the pantomime villain.

Every Cloud Entertainments Ltd is the production company behind the Big Bolton Panto.

Production manager Nikki Clarkson said: “We searched for a star last year and found the wonderfully talented Carrie Hobson from Bolton so wanted again to give someone in the local community the great opportunity to star alongside big talent like Keith and Roxanne.

“The role is a panto baddie which is always lots of fun to play, and as we’re looking for either King or Queen Rat, it really does mean that the auditions are open to everyone and previous experience is not necessary.”

The winner must be aged 17 or over and available from Thursday, November 24, for the start of rehearsals to Sunday, January 1, 2017, when the pantomime will hold its grand finale.

Dick Whittington and his Pirate Adventure will launch on Sunday, December 4, and will be held in the Premier Suite at Bolton Whites Hotel, with Keith Chegwin taking on the role of Idle Jack bringing the traditional slapstick humour, while Roxanne Pallett will step into the character of Alice Fitzwarren.

Damian Chadwick, venue controller at Bolton Whites Hotel, said: “Following the huge success of the Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime that we held last year we are incredibly excited to welcome the Big Bolton Panto back to our Premier Suite for a second year.

“The search for a star aspect of the show really reinforces the hotel’s commitment to supporting the local community and we’re really looking forward to seeing what talent comes through from the people of the North West.”

People who want to audition must email info@everycloudentertainments.co.uk with why they should be given the opportunity.

The audition is invitation only so auditionees will be contacted with further details on where they need to go.

Tickets are priced from £12 concessions, £17 adults, £49.50 for a family of four, £9 school/concession groups and £12 for groups over 30. For more information please contact the ticket hotline direct on 0844 871 2932 and to book tickets online visit www.boltonlive.co.uk