AN amateur theatre group has launched a search for five men to star in its latest production - and show audiences all they have to offer.

Bolton Premier Productions is preparing to launch a series of casting sessions for its musical spectacular.

The show will be based on the gritty film, The Full Monty, and the leading men will each be required to strip off on stage in front of an audience of 670.

Director Marje Brayshaw said: "The roles in the show require men of all shapes, sizes and ages. But the leading characters must, of course, be prepared to do the Full Monty' at the end of the show. They must not be shy.

"All the main characters must sing and, most importantly, be able to act well. We are particularly looking for an older man of Afro-Caribbean origin to play the character of Horse."

The Full Monty, which starred Robert Carlyle and a Coronation Street star Bruce Jones (Les Battersby), was a surprise box-office hit when it was released in 1997.

It follows the fortunes of five unemployed men who try to make a living from being strippers.

Based on the film of the same name, the musical uproots the story from Sheffield to New Jersey, USA, but most of the characters will be instantly recognisable.

Mrs Brayshaw stressed that this was not a men-only production.

"The music for the show is funky, modern and fresh, and the girls need not be disheartened as there are plenty of roles for them to audition for as well.

"This society is always ready for a challenge and wants to make this production our biggest and best yet."

The Full Monty, which will be staged in October, follows the sell-out success of the group's last show, Jekyll and Hyde.

The first casting meeting will take place at The Baptist Church, Snowden Street, off St Georges Road, Bolton on Monday at 9pm.

For more details visit www.boltonprem.co.uk.