Talent search in Hanley competition

Sep 2 2009 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

THE excitement of the X Factor and variety of Britain’s Got Talent combine at Hanley’s Regent Theatre next week in the 2009 Stoke’s Top Talent.

The competition was introduced by Potteries favourite Jonathan Wilkes last year, taking a similar format to the ITV show to unearth the hottest local act.

Last year’s winner was Daniel Hewitt, who went on to have a starring role in last year’s Regent Theatre panto Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and is now bidding to become the winner of the ‘Open Mic’ regional finals in October.

Wilkes comperes the week-long competition, which sees talented locals battle it out over five heats for a place in the grand final.

This year’s winner will once again bag a place in the cast for this year’s panto Dick Whittington, alongside Wilkes, musical star Sheila Ferguson and glamour model Amy Diamond.

But first they must impress Wilkes and his fellow judges comedian Paddy McGuinness and former Footballer’s Wives star Susie Amy.

Theatre spokesman Dave Bradbury said: “Last year’s live shows were a phenomenon and this year is promising to be even bigger and better.”

The heats start at 7.30pm each night from Monday, with a 7.30pm grand final on Saturday, September 12. Tickets are £5, phone the box office on 0844 871 7649.