Here comes the biggest chance for kids to find fame since Pop Idol. Elton John is launching an open audition to help find budding young actors who can sing and dance to play Billy Elliot in a West End production of the hit film.

Elton has written all the music for the show, which will kick off in London before Christmas 2004.

"I’m so excited about this musical. I loved the movie and I know the musical will be fantastic. We’re looking for about three or four boys to play Billy Elliot. Because of child labour laws you can’t have children working on stage every night."

"The difficulty is finding boys who can sing, dance, and speak with a North Eastern accent. They need to be between 11 and 14. We thought an open audition would be the best way."

"I’m sure we’ll find what we’re looking for and I’ve no doubt the show will be amazing. I found the music really easy to write. There is so much inspiration from the era in which it is set, during the miners’ strike. I related to Billy’s character because he struggles against a strong father and I had a similar problem."

The musical is being directed by Stephen Daldry, who also directed the movie. If you want to audition, just turn up at the address below on Sunday January 11, 2004 at 9am to register: The London School Of Musical Theatre, 83 Borough Road, London SE1 1DN.

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