Madonna held 'epic' auditions for new backing dancers at a New York nightclub.

The 'Celebration' singer is searching for a group of experienced performers to join her on stage during her forthcoming shows, and turned up at the Simyone Lounge club, also known as SL, in Manhattan's trendy Meatpacking District to watch them in person.

A source told the New York Post newspaper: 'She was looking for new dancers for her upcoming tour. It was pretty epic. Some professionals were doing flips and spins, while the amateurs sort of just stared.'

Around 30 dancers took to the floor at the popular night spot, arranged themselves into a circle and held a dance-off.

The 51-year-old pop star – who began her own showbiz career as a professional dancer – watched on with her friend and singer Eve, Italian basketball player Danilo Gallinari, while hip-hop DJ Tony Touch took to the decks.

Madonna finished her epic 'Sweet and Sticky' world tour late last year but is already keen to get back on the road.