CHILDREN can try out for a star role in this year’s Christmas panto.

Cinderella will be this year’s chosen panto at the Towngate Theatre, Basildon.

Simon Fielding, who directed and starred in last year’s awardwinning show Rapunzel, will be returning and holding the open auditions for youngsters in June.

Boys and girls between the ages of eight and 16 can try out at Basildon Sports Centre, in Neithermayne, Basildon, on Sunday, June 22.

Mr Fielding said: “We had such an amazing and talented cast last year, and now we are on the look out for more talented boys and girls to join our wonderful cast and star in Cinderella.

“This year’s panto is going to be fantastic, so come on, be brave and take part in the open auditions and, most of all, good luck!”

Last year’s open auditions attracted hundreds of would-be performers hoping to take part.

The open audition will be held from 10.30am and people should register from 10am.

Cinderella will run from Wednesday, December 3, to Sunday, January 4, at the Towngate Theatre.

For more information, go to www.facebook.com/towngatepanto