Grand Opera House search for Sunset Boulevard stars

Summer Youth Production set to return with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning masterpiece Sunset Boulevard – register now for open auditions

Do you know a young person who loves to sing, dance and perform? The Grand Opera House is searching for talented young performers, aged 16-21 years, to take part in this year’s Summer Youth Production of Sunset Boulevard.

The audition deadline is fast approaching, and all budding 16-21-year-old performers interested in the experience of a lifetime are urged to register for open auditions by Monday 19 February 2024. 

Sunset Boulevard marks the twelfth season of the Grand Opera House’s hugely popular Summer Youth Production. Over 70 talented young performers will spend two weeks in intensive rehearsals before taking to the iconic Grand Opera House stage for four performances only, supported by a professional theatre director, choreographer, technical team, musical director and 17-piece orchestra.

Registration for open auditions will close on Monday 19 February with first stage auditions taking place on Sunday 25 February and call back auditions on Sunday 3 March 2024. The full Summer Youth Production project will run from Saturday 6 to Saturday 20 July.

Based on the Billy Wilder film of the same title and famously rated as one of the greatest films ever made, the musical version, with its heart-stopping music and dance, will give the Summer Youth Production’s young stars the perfect platform to shine and captivate audiences with their talent.

Grand Opera House Chief Executive Ian Wilson said: “This is one of the most ambitious titles undertaken as a Summer Youth Production providing a once in a lifetime opportunity for young performers to appear on the famous Grand Opera House stage in an unforgettable experience this summer. 

“The Summer Youth Production has established itself as one of the biggest, best and most enjoyable of its kind anywhere in the UK and Ireland. Credited with helping produce top notch acting and production talent over many years, it is also an important platform to enhance young people’s confidence and communication skills, as well as their mental wellbeing. 

“Anyone between 16 and 21 can register to audition via our website by 19February, so if you fancy treading the boards or learning from the professional production team backstage then make sure to apply before the sun sets that day!”

Sunset Boulevard will be the third Summer Youth Production to be staged since the Grand Opera House’s completed the stunning restoration project in 2021 and presents an incredible opportunity to rehearse and perform in the magnificent landmark theatre. No previous acting or singing experience is necessary to take part and there will also be an opportunity for a number of 16–21-year-olds to be part of the backstage technical team.

Ready for your close-up? Register for open auditions or find out more about the Grand Opera House’s Sumer Youth Production Sunset Boulevard here.