HIT musical Annie is coming to Felixstowe Spa Pavilion in one of the most ambitious projects the theatre has ever undertaken.The production promises to be one of the biggest shows the theatre has staged and will come as the culmination of its first two-week Summer Youth Project.

HIT musical Annie is coming to Felixstowe Spa Pavilion in one of the most ambitious projects the theatre has ever undertaken.

The production promises to be one of the biggest shows the theatre has staged and will come as the culmination of its first two-week Summer Youth Project.

About 250 youngsters from across the region will be invited to take part in the event as they join in every aspect of the show, with an intensive period of training and rehearsals all under expert, professional supervision.

They will work hard each day from August 11 to 19 before the musical, immortalised on film, takes to the stage from August 20 to 23.

Auditions for budding actors and actresses will be held on May 18 and there is also ample opportunity for those not wanting to tread the boards to join the production's backstage and marketing teams.

So whether you are interested in acting, dancing, drama, music, movement, stage management, lighting, sound, props or marketing and are aged nine to 25-years-old this is the perfect project.

Paul Ryan, general manager of the Spa Pavilion, said: "We are overjoyed to be able to bring all this local talent together in one professional show.

"The training will be first class and will result in a show not to be missed.

"As a centre for the arts it is our duty to increase active participation in the arts, and to train people in the skills that will ensure that the arts in Suffolk continue to go from strength to strength."

The idea for the Summer Youth Project is to bring the youth of East Anglia together for one spectacular show.

If it is a success, which everyone involved believes it will be, it is hoped it will continue for many years to come.

"The Spa continues to get bigger and better shows every season and we hope that this project will be the crowning glory of our year," Mr Ryan added.

The project has already amassed a great deal of support and is being backed by the town council.

It is hoped that come August the town will be able to welcome the best young talent the region has to offer.

Auditions will be held on May 18 at the theatre. People with surnames starting A to M are at 10am, surnames starting N to Z from 2pm.

Mr Ryan said: "It's unfortunate we won't be able to take everyone, but everyone is entitled to audition."

Anyone wanting to audition is asked to contact the box office on 01394 282126 for an application form. The deadline for applications is April 25.