ARE you a young person who dreams of becoming an actor and following in the footsteps of local successes such as Christopher Eccleston, Paul Nicholls and Sir Ian McKellen?

If the answer is yes, then Bolton's award-winning Octagon Theatre is offering you the chance to achieve your dream.

activ8, the participatory department of the Octagon Theatre, is currently recruiting members for its much lauded Youth Theatre, and has a select number of spaces available for young people aged between five and 18 years. Youth Theatre sessions start at the end of January, running on alternate Saturdays for ages five to 11, and every Wednesday evening for ages 12 to 18.

The Octagon's Youth Theatre has been running for many years to great acclaim. Working alongside professional drama facilitators to learn new skills in all aspects of drama and theatre production, Youth Theatre members regularly create and perform work in the Octagon's Studio Theatre. The Youth Theatre provides a unique opportunity to learn about how to produce theatre, make new friends and develop exciting new skills at one of the most successful theatres in the country. Notable successful graduates of the Octagon Youth Theatre include local actors Ian Aspinall (Mubbs in Holby City), Nick Gleaves (Playing the Field, Conviction), Paul Nicholls (Joe in EastEnders), and Oliver Lee, who won Most Promising Newcomer at 2005's prestigious Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards for his role in the Octagon's production of Beautiful Thing.

If you're interested in becoming a Youth Theatre member, contact Helen Keenan at activ8 on 01204 556501 to request an application form.