Tough older boys are needed to fill the more aggressive roles in a theatre group’s production of Billy Elliot.

Ilkley’s Upstagers have successfully auditioned dozens of younger girls and boys for their production at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford this June.

The Ilkley group were among schools and youth theatre groups across the country picked to stage their own Billy Youth Theatre productions of the internationally award-winning musical.

Based on the hit 2000 film, Billy Elliot tells the story of a boy who defeats the jibes to trade his boxing gloves for ballet shoes.

The Upstagers have had little trouble in recruiting younger boys who can dance to take on the main roles.

But older teens to take the more aggressive and grown-up roles are in short supply.

The Upstagers would like to hear from boys aged 16 to 19, as well as some older girls, as rehearsals are already under way. The production will be staged at the Alhambra from June 15 to 18.

To get involved, contact Paul Nowland on 07951 156 0355 or Gill Jackson on 07980 530949.