TEENAGER Charlie Lock has beaten stiff competition to land himself a role with hit musical, Seussical The Musical.

The 14-year-old, who trains with Stagecoach Swindon, will take the role of a circus animal in the show inspired by the stories of Dr Seuss.

He will join an international cast of 76 Stagecoach performers from across the world, including youngsters from the UK, Malta, USA, South Africa and Spain who will be presenting four performances of the show at the Leatherhead Theatre, in Surrey, later this month.

Charlie said: “I was over the moon to win a role in Seussical.

“Everyone at Stagecoach is talented so it was an honour to be picked.

“It’s a fantastic show to watch and even better to be part of.

“The rehearsals are going well, they’re hard work but at the same time so much fun and I’ve made some really great friends.

“It’s been an incredible experience so far and I’m looking forward to performing on stage with everyone.”

The students are currently rehearsing at a drama training camp in Twickenham in the weeks leading up to the first performance on August 15.

The performance will see some of the future stars of theatre come together to present the musical after only two weeks rehearsing.

Sheryll Fox,the principal of Stagecoach Swindon, said: “It’s been fantastic bringing together a wide range of international performers for the rehearsals.

“They’re working incredibly hard and I’m certain they will impress on opening night.

“The whole audition and training process will no doubt provide valuable experience for a future in the world of theatre.”

The performance of Seussical the Musical will take place from August 16 to August 17.

There will be one evening and one matinee performance on both days.

Tickets for the four performances are available online at www.leatherhead-tickets.co.uk or via the box office on 01372 365141.

They cost £17.50 for adults and £15 for concessions.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Swindon is part of a network of more than 700 part-time Theatre Arts Schools worldwide.

Early Stages classes are available for children aged 4 to 6 and Main School classes take place for 7 to 18 year olds.