THE producers of the world premiere of Cilla the musical are now on the hunt for their Cilla.

Open auditions will be taking place across the country starting in Cilla's hometown - the Liverpool Empire on May 2.

Among the auditionees, producers are hoping to find a charismatic and talented actress with a great voice to portray the title role.

Robert Willis, executive producer and Cilla’s son, said: “My Mum loved singing and performing ever since she was a young girl and she was determined to do what she loved.

"Having performed at the clubs around Liverpool, including the famous Cavern Club, she got her big break when Brian Epstein spotted her and signed her. It was the start of everything that was to follow.

"She was a natural born performer who lived to entertain her audience.

"We are hoping to find that person who also dreams big and has the talent to match but just needs the chance to show it."

Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield present the new musical about the life of Cilla Black this September before a nationwide tour.

The musical adaptation of the critically acclaimed ITV mini-series follows the extraordinary life of the ordinary teenage girl from Liverpool, Priscilla White, and her rocky rise to fame.

The musical score includes Cilla’s greatest hits Anyone Who Had a Heart, Alfie and Something Tells Me.

For full information about the auditions and to register, visit cillathemusical.com.