BBC One goes in search of Oliver

BBC One has confirmed that it will follow up How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria and Any Dream Will Do with a search for the next star of Oliver.

Auditions for I'd Do Anything will begin early in the New Year, with the roles of Nancy and Oliver up for grabs. Three young protégés will share the role of Oliver.

As with the BBC's previous West End searches, Graham Norton will host proceedings with Andrew Lloyd Webber and team of judges looking on. Musical theatre legend Cameron Mackintosh will also be playing a key role.

"We're really pleased to be building on the success of Any Dream Will Do with a new search for West End stars next year," said Elaine Bedell, controller of entertainment commissioning at the BBC. "Oliver! is a much-loved British musical so we're sure the show will unite families and melt hearts across the UK as we watch some of Britain's best new talent take centre stage."