CHILDREN are being given the opportunity to become members of the cast of the pantomime The Wizard of Oz - this year’s Christmas pantomime at Maidstone's Hazlitt Theatre.

The Kent Messenger has teamed up with the theatre to offer them the chance to become KM Kids - by taking singing and dancing roles in the production.

The audition for juniors, aged seven to 14, is this Sunday (September 22) at The Exchange, Market Buildings, Maidstone. The children, who must be under 5ft, should enrol at 9.30am and auditions will start at 10am and finish at noon.

The next audition for boys interested in playing soldiers in the Army of Oz is also on Sunday, with enrolment at 12.30pm for a 1pm start and a scheduled 2.30pm finish.

The audition for seniors, aged 14 and over, is Wednesday (September 25) and not Tuesday as stated in this week’s Kent Messenger. The error was due to incorrect information supplied to the newspaper.

Enrolment is at 5.30pm for a 6pm start at The Exchange. The minimum height is 5ft and performers must have all round dance ability. Strong jazz and ballet would be an advantage. Youngsters attending the auditions should wear dance clothing and have their hair tied securely.