Dancers can apply to be extras in a performance of 'Romeo & Juliet' at Emirates Palace

The American Ballet Theatre is looking extras to cast and no prior dance experience is necessary

The American Ballet Theatre is holding an open call for extras for a performance of 'Romeo & Juliet'. Courtesy Abu Dhabi Festival 

Aspiring dancers in the UAE have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to perform with the professionals from American Ballet Theatre. An open call has been put out looking for extras to showcase their skills in a performance of Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet at Emirates Palace on Friday and Saturday April 3 and 4 as part of Abu Dhabi Festival.

For two nights, those chosen will get to perform the masterful version of the play, created by the late British choreographer Kenneth Macmillan, at Emirates Palace Auditorium, with the American Ballet Theatre and Cleveland Orchestra, under the baton of music director Franz Welser-Most.

The casting call is open to people who don't necessarily have prior dance experience. The theatre company is looking for females aged 14 to 60 and males aged 15 to 65. Interested applicants should register online at www.abudhabifestival.com/abt-audition before Saturday, February 15.

Romeo & Juliet tells the classic tale of two young star-crossed lovers from two feuding families. It's been adapted numerous times in the past, including by director Baz Luhrmann, whose 1996 film stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes.

Abu Dhabi Festival starts on Tuesday, March 31, and runs until Thursday, April 9. It's organised by Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, and will feature about a dozen performances held in both Emirates Palace and at NYU Abu Dhabi.