A DRAMATIC introduction to the world of theatre needs the help of York businesses.

The Summer Youth Project works to give children their first taste of acting on the big stage.

And it needs sponsorship to help fund next year's production of Wind In The Willows.

The scheme is run by the Grand Opera House in the city.

"This year's project, Oliver!, was of such high quality that 15 young people from Oliver have been accepted for parts in this year's panto, Dick Whittington, thanks to the skills they learnt," said a project spokeswoman.

Oliver was not sponsored and had to rely on funding from ticket sales and membership fees.

The cash is needed for a project team to be employed, a set built and costumes made.

It is hoped a sponsor would enable youngsters to achieve a higher quality of tutoring and superior sets - and open the project to children who cannot afford membership fees.

A sponsorship package includes logos on all print produced, T-shirts and certificates, a page in the performance programme and complimentary tickets for staff members.

For more information contact Lisa Bates on 01904 678700.

Updated: 11:21 Tuesday, October 16, 2001