AN annual competition that showcases Hillingdon’s undiscovered singers, dancers, comedians and other entertainers returns to the Compass Theatre, Ickenham, later this month.

Hillingdon’s Hidden Talent 2013, now in its fifth year, will be held on Sunday, February 24 at 3pm.

Prizes will be given to the top three entrants in each category – solo acts, under-16 solo acts and groups – with special awards for the most unusual routine and overall winner.

Around 20 competitors will perform in front of four judges and a live audience.

Though the format is similar to The X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent, Charlotte Baldwin, arts programming officer at Hillingdon Council, says the atmosphere is markedly different from the cut-throat nature of such shows.

“We try to foster a positive, fun and relaxed environment,” she explained. “We do reward outstanding ability but everyone goes away happy.

“It’s simply a great opportunity for Hillingdon residents to demonstrate what they can do."

Previous Hidden Talent performers include singer Joelle Moses, a finalist on BBC’s The Voice, and 2012 winners Indigo High, a soul band from Ruislip that have since played at the O2 Arena and Royal Festival Hall.

Applications to enter the competition – which is free – can be made at www.hillingdon.gov.uk/talent. The deadline for submissions is Saturday, February 16.

Audience tickets are £3.50 and can be purchased from the Compass Theatre on 01895 673200 or by visiting www.compasstheatre.co.uk