Chorus line seeks real men

Shona McCullagh, head choreographer for 2011 Rugby World Cup opening ceremony. Photo / Richard Robinson

Wanted: burly rugby blokes willing to show their moves in tights in front of 60,000 people.

Ideally, you should look like Colin Meads or Jonah Lomu but the only requirement is "a gung-ho attitude".

A total of 1500 volunteers are needed to perform at the Rugby World Cup's opening ceremony. The deadline is tomorrow, and the number of applicants has yet to reach the bare minimum.

Head choreographer Shona McCullagh said she wanted people of all shapes, sizes and experiences - but one section of the programme required "true blue" rugby men.

"We would love buff, well-built guys. They need to be fit for this particular section," Ms McCullagh said.

"[We need] some good men in tights - or men in rugby shorts, in this case."

It was the chance for a band of rugby mates to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience, she said.

It might even be their first chance to set foot on the Eden Park pitch. And real men should be unafraid of joining in a performance, Ms McCullagh said.

"Well, all I can say is real men move," she said.

"This isn't dancing, this is about strong formations, and anyone who plays rugby will be well used to that kind of choreography."

More applicants are needed for auditions next weekend, and they must be prepared to attend rehearsals twice a week.

"It's an opportunity to celebrate the sport we all love and express the great Kiwi sense of athleticism and courage and ability to do something outside the box."

No dancing experience was required. "It's the opportunity to perform in front of 60,000 people and millions on television," Ms McCullach said. "It would be something to put in the scrapbook."