A DONKEY is urgently needed to take on a role in the opera, Carmen, which is coming to Wycombe and Aylesbury.

To bring a genuine feeling of Spain to the production, award-winning opera director/ producer Ellen Kent is looking for a donkey to appear in both the market scene in Act One and to carry the smugglers’ goods through the mountains in Act Three.

But so far, they have found it difficult to find a donkey willing to take part in Bucks. Sadie Williams, who has been co-ordinating the donkey stars for Opera and Ballet International, said: "We’ve had a great response in many areas and often the donkeys are quite used to the spotlight, having appeared in nativities or Palm Sunday parades. But for some reason we’re struggling to find a suitable donkey for High Wycombe and Aylesbury. "

Carmen is at the Wycombe Swan in High Wycombe on February 17 and the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury on March 1.

If you think your donkey has the star quality to appear in the show, contact Sadie on sadie@ellenkent.co.uk by December 20.

As his owner, you will need to be prepared to go onstage in costume to look after him or her.

A collection to raise money for donkey welfare will be made on the night.

Tickets are on sale now. In High Wycombe contact the box office on 01494 512000 or go online at www.wycombeswan.co.uk, and in Aylesbury contact the box office on 0844 871 7607.