English Youth Ballet are auditioning for new roles in a production of Coppélia planned for 2018.

At the audition 100 young male and female dancers, aged eight to 18, from across the region will be offered the chance to rehearse with and then dance alongside international professional principal dancers in the production for three performances.

The auditions take place November 14 at Watersmeet Theatre in Rickmansworth and performances will be there on March 2 and 3 2018.

The story of Coppélia follows the escapades of the dreamy Franz and how he comically falls in love with a beautiful, life-like doll. The doll – Coppélia – is created by the eccentric, yet mysterious inventor, Dr Coppelius. The plot thickens when Franz’s jealous lover, Swanhilda, takes her friends on an adventure into the spooky house of the mad inventor to confront her rival. Of course, the story ends happily after the truth is uncovered. The whole town joins the most extravagant wedding celebration for the smitten Franz and Swanhilda.

English Youth Ballet director Janet Lewis says: “The EYB audition is an experience in itself. EYB is all about performance experience and this starts at the audition as the dancers are given a regular ballet class on the stage.

“Parents and family are encouraged to watch from the audience. We are looking for young dancers of all abilities who can show the audience how much they enjoy their dancing.”

The young dancers benefit from being coached and mentored by the professional dancers in an 11-day rehearsal period which takes place out of school hours. They gain a unique insight into what it is like to be a professional dancer.

Auditions will be held on Tuesday, November 14 2017 at Watersmeet, High Street, Rickmansworth, WD3 1EH, 4.30pm to 6.15pm for dancers aged eight to 11 and 6.45pm to 8.30pm for dancers aged 12 to 18.

Details: 01689 856747 or info@englishyouthballet.co.uk.