Wherefore art thou budding film-makers? The Royal Opera House runs competition to create 40 second Romeo and Juliet

Could you create your own Romeo and Juliet in 40 seconds? The Royal Opera House and BP are looking for budding film-makers of all ages and experience to produce their own 40 second version of Romeo and Juliet. A judging panel from the Royal Opera House and BP will choose a selection of the best films to be showcased on the BP Summer Big Screens alongside The Royal Ballet's Romeo and Juliet in venues across the UK on Sunday 1 June 2008 at 3pm.

The films can either be based on a short extract such as the famous balcony scene or the death scenes, or a film-maker could choose to tackle the entire story! Participants can express themselves in words, music, dance or even animation - the sky's the limit! The Royal Ballet's production of Romeo and Juliet will be screened live in Trafalgar Square and Canary Wharf in London, Bradford, Hull, Leeds, Manchester, Rotherham, Derby, Ipswich and Swindon.

Kenneth MacMillan's interpretation of Shakespeare's tragedy has become one of the most popular works in The Royal Ballet's repertory. This Sunday afternoon screening has been chosen especially to allow families to enjoy one of the most memorable and emotive scores in history.

Competition Details All entries are in with a chance to be screened on BP Summer Big Screens on 1 June. Entries can be viewed through the website www.roh.org.uk/bpbigscreens. There is a range of ways to submit an entry: Best option - 16.9 full height anamorphic on DV tape Medium option - film it on a camcorder and send in on DVD Fun option - film it on a mobile phone, download it and email it to 40secfilm@roh.org.uk.

Participants must attach name, age and contact details. Films should be sent to '40 second films' FAO Simon Magill, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, WC2E 9DD. Films must be suitable for family viewing. The deadline for entries is 26 May 08. www.roh.org.uk/bpbigscreens

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