As far as Friday night entertainment goes, it's not a bad deal - an invitation to a masquerade ball plus the chance to appear on the silver screen.

The producers of The Butterfly Tattoo, the film adaptation of Oxford author Philip Pullman's novel, are in need of extras on Friday as they film one of the movie's major scenes at Howbery Park, near Wallingford. Men and women aged 18 to 30 are needed to act as guests at the ball, with women wearing ball gowns or full evening dresses and men wearing tuxedos or tailcoats.

The film, a contemporary love story set in Oxford, follows the relationship of the two central characters, Chris and Jenny, and the masquerade ball is where they first meet. Producers say the film is shaping up to be a huge success and they are almost certain it will appear at the Cannes Film Festival.

Production assistant Lew Fryer said: "This is our biggest scene of the film and we are looking for 150 to 250 extras."

Extras will be required to arrive at 7.30pm for the beginning of the shoot and stay until the end at 6am the following day.

Masks will be provided, but anyone with their own is welcome to bring them along.

There are also a few places available to play waiters.

Mr Fryer said: "Anyone wishing to be considered for one of these roles will need to wear all black and inform us they are interested in the part."

Filming will take place outside so anyone wanting to attend is advised to bring warm clothes and umbrellas for between shoots, as well as reading material.

Mr Fryer added: "All extra work is unpaid, but food will be provided. This will be a very exciting shoot to be involved in, especially for people who would like to get involved in the film world.

"It's a great way of learning more about the industry and making good contacts."

Anyone interested is asked to send an email to tbtextras@googlemail.com with age, phone number and a photo of themselves in what they will be wearing.

Filming for The Butterfly Tattoo is set to continue until Sunday.