YOUNG hopefuls turned up in their leggings and dancing shoes to audition for a youth production of a popular musical.

About 200 drama enthusiasts aged eight to 18 were put through their paces at the New Theatre in George Street, Oxford, for Guys and Dolls Junior.

The New Theatre Stage Experience puts on a production every year to get young people into drama. Up to 15 main roles are up for grabs and rehearsals start on August 7, before the performances on August 18, 19, and 20.

Theatre spokesman Diana Hackett said: “It’s a good opportunity for young people to get involved in a big musical at the theatre.”

Eve Norris, 17, from Steventon, near Abingdon, and Edd Bird, 18, from Aston, near Witney, were among those auditioning for roles yesterday. Edd said: “We both played the leads in Fame last year and had a great time on stage.”

Eve added: “It would be great to get a lead role again this year but it’s fun just to be in the chorus line.”