HUNDREDS of performers turned out in Newport on Sunday to show a judging panel what they had to offer.

During the day, singers and dancers of all ages competed for a place in the 'Britain Does Variety' regional finals at the Dolman Theatre.

The auditions, one of many around the UK, hoped to discover the best on-stage performers and bring variety back to theatres.

A total of 22 acts were put through to the next stage of the competition in March.

One of these is the Coleg Gwent show choir, which has around 20 members.

The drama students performed 'Seasons of Love' from the musical Rent, combining acting and singing.

Tutor Emma Hughes said they enjoyed the competition.

She said: "A lot of them normally wouldn't get the chance to do something like that."

Another hopeful, dog groomer Anne Martin, sang two songs to the panel, which included Britain Does Variety founders Mr Clarke and television presenter David Payne.

Mr Payne praised the level of performance shown by Gwent people.

He said: "There are a lot of good singers here."

Breakdance group Full FX, from Ringland, who reached the quarter finals of Wales Got Talent a few weeks ago, were put through to the next round.

The teenagers will return for the regional final at the Dolman Theatre next month.

Mr Payne said the following Gwent singers and dancers got places in the next round:

  • Emma Hughes with Coleg Gwent show choir
  • Ellie Pinnell
  • Joseph Tulloch
  • Phoebe White
  • John Woods and Richard Beavis
  • Alex McDonagh
  • Full FX
  • Megan Postle