THE search is on to find a young North-East girl to appear in the London West End musical based on the hit movie Billy Elliot.

Open auditions are being held in Newcastle on Sunday for girls aged ten to 14.

The role of Debbie is a key one because she is the girl who befriends Billy, the miner's son who wants to become a ballet dancer.

The three teenage performers chosen to play Billy are expected to be named next month, but Debbie has not been cast yet.

The £5m show, Billy Elliot The Musical, will open in March at the Victoria Palace Theatre, in London.

The production is written by Newcastle-born Lee Hall and is directed by Stephen Daldrey, who both worked on the movie. The music is by Elton John.

Auditions will take place at the Sage Academy of Performing Arts, in Potts Street, Byker.

Registration will begin at 9am. Girls wanting to audition must be no taller than 5ft 3in.

They are asked to bring clothes to move in, a recent photograph, plenty to drink and lots of energy.

A show spokesman said: "They do not have to prepare anything as we will teach them all we need to see.

"They just need to come ready to act, sing and dance."

Published: 24/09/2004