A LEADING Keighley theatre company has launched a multi-racial recruiting drive for its latest show.

Keighley Musical Theatre Group hopes to attract amateur actors from different racial groups to field an authentic cast for its production of hit musical Hairspray.

The show is set against a background of segregation between the black and white communities in 1962 Baltimore.

KMTC spokesman David Brett said there would be open auditions for principals, dancers and ensemble, with a closing date of February 28.

He said: “Hairspray is a funny, all singing, all dancing musical but one that has some important social themes.

“The star of the show ‘Tracey Turnblad’, for example, who is seeking stardom being ‘plus-size’, is not your typical pop star wannabe! She takes up the challenge to bring the black and white communities together.

“We need people who can help us put together a cast who can reflect the different racial groups. Our membership is largely white so we would welcome applications from young people (over 14) who could help us fairly represent the black community in the show.”

“In the end all people auditioning will be judged by the same standards but we feel it would be a fantastically positive message if we were able to attract new members from different ethnic backgrounds to join the cast.”

Visit keighleymtc.com to register for the auditions. Call 01274 591292 for further information.