PANTOMIME producers have issued a last call in their search for a North-East star.

The team behind the award-winning Customs House pantomime, at the Customs House, in South Shields, South Tyneside, is offering a young woman the opportunity to shine in this year's production.

Producers are looking for someone to play Alice in their version of Dick Whittington.

Ray Spencer, who will write, direct and perform in the show, said: "This is an opportunity for a young woman hoping to get a foot on the showbusiness ladder.

"Because Alice is a principal character, we are ideally looking for someone aged between 18 and 25-years-old who can sing and act.

"No previous experience is necessary. We just ask if anyone feels they have the ability to give it a go at the auditions.

"They should be able to sing something unaccompanied on the day and be prepared to read a short poem."

Alice, who is Dick Whittington's love interest in the show, will perform opposite Mr Spencer and Bob Stott.

More than 8,000 tickets have been sold for the show, which runs from December 2 to 8.

The final auditions take place today, and candidates are asked to turn up between 4pm and 6pm.

The Customs House can be contacted on 0191-454 1234.

Published: 08/06/2004