The search is on for budding young performers to audition for Hackney’s biggest annual talent competition, Alter Ego.

Singers, dancers, rappers, musicians, actors and comedians aged between 13-19 who live in Hackney can showcase their untapped talent in the auditions this Saturday at the Hackney Empire.

The lucky acts which get chosen will participate in four development workshops led by professional choreographers, directors and musicians, preparing them to give the performance of their lives in front of a live audience of 1,300 in the final on Friday February 7 presented by MTV star Kat B.

Past guest judges have included Mobo award winners Akala and Rudimental, British rappers Paigey Cakey, Lady Leshurr and Krept & Konan and Radio 1Xtra presenter Twin B.

The ultimate winner in the competition organized by the council’s Discover Young Hackney and the Hackney Empire receives a prize package consisting of mentoring by industry professionals, rehearsal and studio time, professional makeover and photo shoot session as well as a soft launch with a well-known record label for singers and rappers.

Hopefuls can audition in person at the Hackney Empire in Mare Street on Saturday January 11 between 10am to 6pm.

To book a slot email alterego@hackneyempire.co.uk including your name, age, contact details and type of act or call 020 8510 4396.

Otherwise upload a video audition by midnight on Friday January 10 at www.hackneyempire.co.uk/alterego, and one entrant chosen by online voters will make it through to the live finals.