YOUNG actors are needed for a production of Terry Pratchett's Johnny and the Dead.

The production is being staged this summer as part of the Youth Arts Festival which is being organised by the Douglas Youth Arts Centre.

Around 30 young people are needed for the play which is described as a "black comedy".

Fiona Helleur, head of youth arts, explained: "This will be the first drama production for this age group at the Youth Arts Centre and we know it will be a lot of hard work but it promises to be an enjoyable experience for all involved.

"It's a black comedy about Johnny - a boy who not only sees dead people but is harassed by them to help save their cemetery from the evil clutches of Amalgamated Consolidated Holdings which wants to destroy graves and build an office block.

"We are looking for 30 young people aged 11 to 14 who can act, or are willing to learn, to take part in this brilliant production which will be directed by Aaron Joughin.

"The cast can expect a lot of comedy and silliness as Johnny finds himself in a series of mishaps and misunderstandings as he tries to help the dead people."

Aaron, 21, has worked at the Youth Arts Centre for two years. He was a member of the Manx National Youth Theatre for a decade and has appeared in productions for the National Association of Youth Theatres in the Isle of Man, London and Burnley.

He said: "We are looking for people who want to have fun on stage as this is a hilarious script that will be enjoyable to perform.

"We want young people who want to act, dance or sing and those who want to work backstage on set design and construction, sound, lighting and even as assistant director."

Auditions for Johnny and the Dead will take place at the Douglas Youth Arts Centre on Wednesday, May 25 at 7.30pm. Rehearsals will start on Wednesday, June 15 at 7.30pm.

For more information and to register for a place contact Fiona on 07624 437339 or e-mail f.helleur@doe.sch.im.