Comedian Mel Smith is urging budding performers to help raise money for the Oxford Children's Hospital Campaign by joining a challenge to put on a show in just 48 hours.

Mel Smith with members of Eyebrow Productions

Drama group Eyebrow Productions hopes to raise up to £15,000 from the Showtime Challenge - a project to stage a musical at the city's New Theatre, in George Street, with only two days' preparation.

If all 1,800 seats are sold, the challenge will generate £15,000 for the Oxford Children's Hospital Campaign, raising money for the new paediatric unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, in Headington, Oxford.

Mr Smith has offered his support by becoming patron. He will also join the auditions as people vie for the 17 lead and 150 choral roles in the fairy-tale production of Into The Woods, by Stephen Sondheim.

He said: "This is an exciting and challenging event and we're urging everyone to get involved in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everyone, no matter how young or old, will have something to offer.

"This is a chance to be involved in an event at a great location and to work with talented musicians, ending in a fantastic musical production while raising money for a good cause." John Radcliffe Hospital trainee finance manager and Showtime Challenge producer Ian Haig, 24, of Botley Road, Oxford, said everyone was invited to muck in, including builders to help with scenery and knitters and dressmakers to make costumes.

The music will be provided by the New Orpheus Ensemble, made up of members of London's leading music colleges, and Stephen Sondheim has waved his £3,000 copyright fee.

Mr Haig said: "Some people might think to direct and stage an entire musical production in 48 hours is crazy. But if you take a top theatre, a top show, top musicians, top celebrity and community support, the result should be amazing."

The auditions are open to everyone. Rehearsals will start on the evening of Friday, July 16.

The audition weekend will be on June 5 and 6, at the John Radliffe Hospital.

Call 07830 208911 or by log on to www.showtimechallenge.co.uk