SOMETHING big is about to hit the Bournemouth theatre scene in the form of a brand new production company.

Masterminded by Lisa Appleyard, James Dixon-Box and Dougie Gubbins, Bournemouth Musical Theatre (BMT) Productions is aiming to be the premier amateur musical theatre company on the South Coast.

James, 28, whose love of theatre started at Bournemouth’s own Big Little Theatre School, said: “The idea is to stage regular productions in the town, build on the wonderful selection of shows currently produced locally and branch out into more diverse forms of the genre.

“We started discussing the idea of forming a company a few months ago and the ideas have been coming thick and fast.”

The dynamic trio are looking to produce more modern, cutting-edge musicals which appeal to a younger audience.

Dougie said: “We don’t want to be a one-hit wonder. There will be a strong balance of experimental and innovative musical theatre.”

They will also be debuting new works by unknown composers, organising workshops and performing in spaces such as the Brownsea Open Air Theatre. Auditions have been planned for September 26 and the group are searching for talent with no age limits. Dougie said: “There is just so much untapped potential and talent in Bournemouth. We will also be scouting at Bournemouth University fresher’s fair.”

With a company launch planned for December 1 at the Days Hotel and their first major show scheduled for March 2014, the team are certainly not hanging around. BMT Productions has also approached James Stead as musical director for their launch event, as he has worked with Big Little Theatre School, Highcliffe Players and toured with a UK production of Godspell.

Lisa said: “He is so talented and has such an infectious energy in a rehearsal room. We knew we wanted him and are so happy he has decided to come on board