Leeds Playhouse invites young actors to audition for the children’s ensemble – and the key role of Cindy Lou Who – in The Grinch

Leeds Playhouse is looking for Whos – and it could be you! It has launched an open casting call, inviting young actors to submit a video self-tape for the children’s ensemble – including the lead role of Cindy Lou Who – for its magical new staging of Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical, opening in its Quarry Theatre in November.

The Playhouse is working with leading casting directors Keston & Keston, who supported the Playhouse’s search for Oliver and Dodger as part of Oliver! and Charlie Bucket as part of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical.

All young people who meet the casting criteria and register by 1 June will be considered by the creative team. This is a paid role, and Leeds Playhouse welcomes young people of all genders to audition. Full details are available below.

Leeds Playhouse Artistic Director Tom Wright, who will be directing the production, said: “The Grinch is a wonderfully imaginative and joyful story that audiences of all ages know and love. At its heart is a mischievous outsider who discovers the power of kindness, community and connection.

“We’re excited to be auditioning young performers of all genders from across the region, both for the children’s ensemble and for the role of Cindy Lou Who – the youngest member of the central Who family. Cindy Lou is a child with a genuine heart of gold: full of wonder, empathy and curiosity, she’s the one person who sees the possibility for goodness in the Grinch and has the courage to express it.

“Taking part in a production like this can be an exciting and confidence-building experience, and it’s always inspiring to see young performers bring a story like this to life on our stage. Leeds Playhouse welcomes young people from all communities to audition, and we encourage anyone who fits the brief to apply, whether they have previous acting experience.”

Casting Directors Keston & Keston said: “We’re delighted to be returning to the Leeds Playhouse to cast Cindy Lou and the wider children’s ensemble cast. We’re looking for talented, committed and passionate young performers for Leeds Playhouse’s Quarry festive production, The Grinch. We’re looking for young people with very strong singing, acting and dance or movement skills. No previous experience is required to audition and we strongly encourage applicants from typically underrepresented backgrounds including disabled artists to apply.”

Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical plays at Leeds Playhouse 19 November 2026 – 16 January 2027. Tickets are available here.