THE wonder of the W Factor is back again for another year as Wychavon District Council searches for the most talented young people in the district.

Open auditions are now, two months away and will take place at Droitwich Spa High School on Tuesday January 16, The De Montfort School on Thursday January 18 and at Pershore Civic Centre on Tuesday January 23, all starting at 5.30pm.

The W Factor is open to performers and artists aged 11-18 that live in Wychavon, and the categories in which they can showcase their skills are dance, drama, music, singing and comedy.

Jenny Davis, Wychavon District Council’s arts development officer, said: “It’s a privilege to bring back The W Factor again to Wychavon. Over the years the competition has been brilliant for developing young artists, but it’s also been great at helping those taking part to develop their confidence and build a strong personality, which will hopefully help them as they pursue their careers.”

The selected finalists will get to perform at the Number 8 Arts Centre in Pershore in a professional showcase final with industry standard production facilities on Monday March 19.

The winners will also get training from professional artists to help them develop and they will be able to perform at local events throughout the summer of 2018.

Anyone wanting to come to an audition will need to fill out an application form. These are available online from www.wychavon.gov.uk/events-training-and-workshops.

Alternatively, telephone Sophie King on 01836 565208 or email sophie.king@wychavon.gov.uk to request a form and return it to Wychavon District Council, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, WR10 1PT.