HUNDREDS of Swindon's children turned out to audition for the Wyvern Theatre's musical production of Annie.

The Swindon Youth Summer Project returned again for the 13th year running offering a moment in the spotlight to more than 200 children.

Young hopefuls, aged nine to 19, attended the auditions, all vying for one of the many all-singing, all-dancing roles.

One of them was former Headlands student, Waylon Holloway, 18, of Pinehurst, who is no stranger to the stage and is hoping to land the part of billionaire businessman and Annie's adoptive father, Oliver Daddy' Warbucks.

He said: "I think it went well. I really hope I got the part. I've been on stage lots of times before.

"I played Joseph in Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at the Olympus Theatre in Bristol."

As well as furthering the careers of Swindon's finest up-and-coming performers, the youth project also caters for those who are completely new to acting.

From a singing orphan to the part of evil Miss Hannigan, who runs the orphanage, there is a part for all acting abilities.

Project co-ordinator Nicki Western said: "The auditions are an open invitation for all children in Swindon. It doesn't matter if they don't have any past experience it's more about their stage presence.

"I'm really pleased with the turnout. There's a lot of talent in Swindon."

The production of Annie will be showing from Thursday, August 24. until Sunday, August 27.

Tickets cost £8.50. For information contact the Wyvern box office on 01793 524481.