AUDITIONS for the ‘funkiest teen musical ever’ start this weekend and talented over 13s are invited to take part. Singers, dancers, actors and those who are skilled at all three are required for a performance of Camp Rock at Easter. Camp Rock is a 2008 Disney Channel movie telling the story of a shy but aspiring young musician who struggles to be able to attend a music camp and then wins the heart of a pop star with her beautiful voice. The film and its sequel, Camp Rock 2, have a huge teenage following. The stage musical is based on both films. ‘Musical theatre is one of the most popular aspects of the performing arts and, with the creation of programmes like Glee, singing has really come into its own,’ said Fiona Helleur, Head of Youth Arts. ‘We have excellent staff to run the show in the form of Iain Dixon, Paul Craig and Ruth Jackson, all of whom are very skilled and are looking forward to the challenge of presenting this show.’ Auditions will be held on Sunday 16th January from 10am to 4pm at the newly renamed Douglas Youth Arts Centre in Kensington Road. Participants are asked to bring a packed lunch and enough water to last the day and to wear loose, comfortable clothing and dance shoes or least trainers for dance auditions. There will be separate singing and acting auditions. ‘The transition from youth club to performing arts centre is moving apace,’ Fiona said of the space. ‘We already have thriving Glee singing sessions and have started musical recording sessions, cutting CDs, on Thursdays. ‘We are open to bands and musicians looking for rehearsal space on Friday and Saturday evenings and have welcomed Bree to the premises following the loss of their rehearsal space. ‘We have several new dance classes in hip-hop and musical theatre and we’ll continue to present shows termly, including up and coming productions of Ye Ha! (a cowboy musical for Years 4 to 6), Teen Angel (Years 7 to 9), and now Camp Rock for Years 9 and above. ‘We are thrilled to have this opportunity to be the first group in the Island to present Camp Rock,’ Fiona said. Anyone interested in taking part in Sunday’s auditions should contact Fiona on 07624 437339 to ensure a place. Ends