BUDDING young rock stars, jugglers, comics, magicians and singers are being invited to take part in a talent show run by Junior Achievement Isle of Man.
 

The Next Big Thing, which is supported by Manx businesses, is open to young people between the ages of 11 and 17.

There will be a £500 cash prize for the winner and the opportunity to be the opening act when The Gleek Club, the UK’s number one Glee tribute band, appears at the Gaiety Theatre on March 24 next year.

The second prize is £250 and the third prize £150.

Junior Achievement chief executive Sue Cook said: "As well as equipping young people for the world of work, Junior Achievement aims to increase self-esteem and confidence.

"Our programmes are at the heart of this, but we believe the Next Big Thing complements the more serious side of what we do.

"This competition is all about giving young people the opportunity to shine, to showcase their talents.

"We're hoping for a real variety of acts – not just singers, dancers and bands -  so if there are any budding escapologists, puppeteers, hypnotists, ventriloquists or unicyclists out there, we want to hear from them."

Auditions will be held around the Island during November and December and the entry fee is £5 per act.

To be part of an auditions audience the entry fee is £2 for adults and £1 for children under 16 years who must be accompanied by an adult.

The semi-final will be at Douglas Youth Centre on Sunday December 11 and the grand final on Saturday January 28, 2012 at the Gaiety Theatre.

Tickets for the latter are £8 for adults and £5 for children and senior citizens and are available from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal, Douglas, the ticket hotline on 600555 or online at www.villagaiety.com

Contestants must be aged between 11 and 17 on January 28, 2012.

The closing date for applications is Friday, November 4. For details and to download an application form, visit www.jaiom.im