IT was the launchpad for stars such as Rosamund Pike, Helen Mirren and Colin Firth.

Now the prestigious National Youth Theatre of Great Britain is seeking young talent from Glasgow.

The theatre school, the first youth theatre in the world, will be at the Lighthouse on February 7, 8 and 21 to hold auditions.

Former members of the National Youth Theatre have won a total of 6 Oscars and received 11 nominations since the company was founded in 1956.

Rosamund Pike, who is nominated for an Oscar and a BAFTA for her performance in Gone Girl, said: "Being part of National Youth Theatre was life-changing and the most fun I've ever had.

"It gave me the tools and experience I needed to launch my career. It was my training because I didn't go to drama school. So go on, give it a go."

Scottish alumni Ashley Jensen and Freya Mavor and National Theatre of Scotland Artistic Director Laurie Sansom have also urged young people aged 14 to 25 from Scotland to apply.

Ashley said: "I'd recommend local young people apply because It's not just about wanting to be an actor when you grow up - it's also a fantastic organisations for channelling your energy and giving you a focus for the future."

National Youth Theatre auditions for young theatrical onstage and backstage talent cost £35 and bursaries are available for those unable to afford the fee.

In 2014 the charity awarded more than £100,000 worth of hardship bursaries.

Applications can be made at www.nyt.org.uk/events and close on February 7, 2015.