CALLING all budding young stars! Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts is inviting applications from children wishing to audition to join the Young Company for this year’s family pantomime, Dick Whittington.

Children who are aged between 8 and 16 at November 26, are invited to apply to join the cast which is headed up by popular children’s TV presenter Chris Jarvis.

Duncan Reeves Productions co-produce the pantomime with Lighthouse for the third year running, following the success of their productions Aladdin and Cinderella. In addition to playing the role of Dick Whittington Chris Jarvis directs and co-writes the pantomime with actor Peter Duncan.

A total of 20 children will be selected to appear in Dick Whittington between December 7 and 31. The children will be split into two equal groups and will perform half of the total number of shows, on alternate days.

A theatre spokesman said: "Audiences are guaranteed plenty of laughs, sparkling new scenery, great contemporary music and audience mayhem as Dick, accompanied by his acrobatic cat sets sail on a journey from Poole to Olde London Town then across the sea seeking fame and fortune. Meet the magical Fairy Bow Bells and the hilarious Dame Dolly Donuts as you boo, cheer, laugh and sing along - and don’t let King Rat become Lord Mayor"

Applications for the Young Company auditions close on Friday, June 15. Download an application from lighthousepoole.co.uk