FANCY following in the footsteps of Wirral’s Daniel Craig? Or Matt Smith, Orlando Bloom, Catherine Tate or Dame Helen Mirren?

Merseyside youngsters are being encouraged to audition for the National Youth Theatre which will be recruiting new members in 2011.

But it’s not simply stars-in-the-making the NYT is looking for – it’s also on the hunt for behind-the-scenes technical talent. Alongside acting, applications are invited for costume, lighting and sound, scenery and prop making, and stage management.

“We’re looking to illuminate the raw talent of young people from across the UK with spark, passion, focus, enthusiasm and commitment,” says NYT artistic director Paul Roseby.

The closing date for applications is January 7, with auditions and interviews taking place at Novas Contemporary Urban Centre.

More information from www.ideastap.com/nytapply or 0207 281 3863.