Wanted - A friendly dog which has star quality to perform on the stage.

Budding actors from The Orchard Youth Theatre are about to start rehearsing for their summer production of The Wiz.

But one member of the cast still has to be filled - Toto, Dorothy’s pet pooch.

The company is holding auditions at the Dartford theatre on Tuesday, July 29 to find a four-pawed canine for the The Wiz the following month.

Candidates must be medium-sized, kind in nature, obedient and child-friendly.

Both the dog and pet owner must be available for rehearsal slots between August 18 and 20 inclusive, as well as participate in the four shows. They are from Thursday, August 21 to Saturday August, 23 at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm,

Registration for auditions starts 2pm and dog handlers must be over the age of 18.

The project gives more than 100 youngsters the chance to sing, act and dance at the theatre in Home Gardens under the supervision of a highly-skilled production team, including a professional director, choreographer and musical director.

For more information or to apply for a Toto audition, email takepart@orchardtheatre.co.uk, or visit the ticket office.

Members of The Orchard Youth Theatre went off to Stanwick Lakes in Northamptonshire for the WhatAbout Festival – a weekend of workshops for and performances by youth theatres from across the UK.

Youth Theatre director, Sarah Chiswell-Hornett, said: “The festival was a wonderful experience for our youth theatre members.

“They made lots of new friends from across the country and developed new skills in exciting youth theatre activity.

“The challenge of pitching tents, cooking and camping saw confidence blossom and OYT danced the night away in the amphitheatre. Highlights included watching shows, cooking marshmallows and taking part in fantastic workshops led by professional companies and artists.”

The OYT offers young people the opportunity to participate in a range of theatre making processes using games, exercises and a variety of scripts. Sessions are designed to be fun and lively and develop skills in confidence, imagination and creativity.

There are regular performance platforms and opportunities to participate in local and countywide events.

OYT is open to young people between the ages of eight and 16 and is perfect for those who enjoy acting, devising and performing. For more details on how to join, visit orchardtheatre.co,uk.