Hobbits wanted for Rings musical

The musical has been trimmed down for its London premiere

Producers of the Lord of the Rings musical are on the look out for actors - preferably with "hobbit-like tendencies" who can sing two songs.

Auditions are to be held to find 20 hobbits for the musical, ahead of its move to London's Theatre Royal in 2007.

Potential applicants should be under 5ft 7ins (170cm) and aged 16-35. Hairy toes and feet are a "distinct advantage," said producers.

The £13m adaptation of JJR Tolkien's trilogy is moving from Toronto.

Theatre closure

The musical, which opened in March, was first performed in Canada but closed three months early.

Producers had originally intended it to open in the UK but were unable to find a theatre large enough at the time.

However, the Theatre Royal will now be free and construction will begin on a £1m stage, including the installation of 17 hydraulic lifts.

The work will require the theatre to be closed for four months, while rehearsals will then run for 11 weeks.

The script is also expected to get an overhaul after some Canadian critics branded it "dull".

The auditions will be held on 18 September at London's Theatre Royal Drury Lane.