Barlow, Norton and Giedroyc seek new stars for Take That stage show The Band

Updated

Gary Barlow is joining forces with the BBC for a new Saturday night entertainment show to be presented by Graham Norton and Mel Giedroyc.

BBC One's Let It Shine will put together a group who will join the cast of new stage show The Band which features the music of Take That.

The stage production is created in association with Gary Barlow and his Take That bandmates Mark Owen and Howard Donald.

Talking about the new series, Barlow said: "Back in 1989, we were just a group of normal guys from Manchester who came together to become Take That.

"The secret to our success was that each of us brought something different to the group and that the five of us had real chemistry."

He added: "Now with Let It Shine we're looking for people from all walks of life to form another unique group who can re-create that magic.

"If you think you've got what it takes, we want to see it."

Over eight weeks of competition, Barlow and three mentors will be looking for talented individuals to form a new group exuding Take That's showmanship and stage presence.

Co-presenter Norton said he was looking forward to helming the forthcoming series.

"The combination of the BBC, everyone's favourite band and Saturday nights made this an offer I simply couldn't refuse," he said.

Norton added: "If I wasn't a part of Let It Shine I know I would be watching it at home - this way I just get the best seat in the house."

Giedroyc, who will soon be back on screen co-hosting The Great British Bake Off with Sue Perkins, said Let It Shine will be "utterly spectacular".

"This show brings together so many of the things I love - singing, dancing, Gary Barlow and Graham Norton. What's not to love?"

Giedroyc continued: "I can't wait to meet the singers and see the performances which I know will be utterly spectacular.

"If you know someone who's got the moves, whether they already sing in the shower or on the stage, we want to see them."

Charlotte Moore, BBC Controller of TV Channels and iPlayer, said: "BBC One's new Saturday night show will bring families together to celebrate Britain's love of musical theatre, combining singing, performance and dance in a hotly contested search to find a new group.

"Masterminded by Gary Barlow, our hosts will guide viewers through eight weeks of unmissable competition, all to win a dream place in a new stage show."

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