VIBRANT young dance talent will step out on the professional stage, in many cases for the first time, on Sunday.

Durham's Gala Theatre plays host to Northern Lights 2005, the fifth such event, highlighting the skills of modern dance hopefuls, from schools, colleges and community groups in the area.

Among the groups performing on the night will be Durham City Youth Dance and County Durham Youth Dance, with choreography from leading local lights in the field, Helen Smith, Fleur Darkin, Kate Lauridsen and Natalie Wardell.

James Doyle, classes and workshops co-ordinator from Newcastle's Dance City collective, said: "This is the fifth year we've organised Northern Lights and it's bigger and better than ever.

"One of the most notable things, for me, about the evening is the obvious enthusiasm that these young performers share for dance and performing.

"For many it's their first 'professional' experience."

Tickets for Northern Lights, which starts at 7pm, cost £5 and can be booked through the Gala box office, on 0191-332 4041.