Auditions are now open for the return of Wolverhampton Grand Theatre’s South Asian dance competition, JUST NAACH, which will be held on Sunday 15 September at 5pm.

The live celebration of South Asian Dance in the West Midlands will be hosted by Radio XL presenter Manpreet Darroch.

An exciting panel of judges and professional acts will also be announced soon. Whether you plan to enter or support from your seat, JUST NAACH will be a thrilling evening for all involved. Cheer for your favourite act and find out who will be crowned champion!

Bollywood, Bhangra, Regional Folk, Indian Classical and South Asian Fusion are just some of the styles that make up the wonderful world of South Asian Dance. Whether you are a solo performer, youth group or school group all entries are welcome. It is free to enter with entries closing on 31 July 2024.

Finalists will get to perform on the main stage at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre in front of the panel of judges and the live audience. The winning performer or group will win 50 tickets to the pantomime BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre in January 2025 as well as a winner’s trophy.

The competition, first held in 2022 featured seven finalists with professional performances from BACK2BACK and Bollywood Dreams Dancers. Walsall based group Ultimate Bhangra were crowned the winners led by Parambeer Samrai.

Associate Director for Audiences & Communication at the Grand Theatre, Vicky Price said; “We are thrilled to be bringing JUST NAACH back to the Grand Theatre stage this September. In 2022 we enjoyed an electrifying showcase of talent for all ages. The competition celebrates the rich culture of South Asian dance and performing arts here in Wolverhampton and surrounding areas. JUST NAACH is not only a joyful evening but an integral part of the Grand Theatre’s commitment to cultural heritage, storytelling and communal connection. We cannot wait to see what this year’s competition has in store and are looking forward to seeing all your entry performances!”

Tickets to be in the live audience are on sale now at grandtheatre.co.uk.

HOW TO ENTER

Step 1: Create an audition video that is a maximum of two minutes long.

Step 2: Tell us about you or your group in 250 words or less.

Step 3: Send your entries to casting@grandtheatre.co.uk with the following information.

Name of group leader, name of group or artist, contact address and telephone number.

Deadline for all entries is Wednesday 31 July 2024 at 12 noon.