“DON’T try and be who you think people want you to be.”

Those were some of the words of advice given to aspiring theatre actors at the Wyvern Theatre by West End star Chloe Hart.

Chloe, who is currently in rehearsals for the West End production of Cyndi Lauper’s Kinky Boots, was in Swindon visiting youngsters to mark the start of the theatre’s Summer Youth Project, ahead of their production of the hit musical, Hairspray.

The actress spoke to the youngsters of landing her first professional role as leading lady Tracy Turnblad in the West End version of the show at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2009.

And she said that she has learned a raft of lessons through her time treading the boards.

“If I can give any tips to aspiring performers, it would be to continue to work on your skills as hard as you can,” she said. “Never assume that you are as good as you can be because there is always more you can do to improve.”

And she added: “And always be yourself. Don’t try and be who you think people want you to be.”

Chloe’s visit was made possible by the Wyvern Theatre Foundation, a charitable organisation that helps local young people to become more involved with performing arts.

The foundation is a supporter of the Summer Youth Project, providing bursary places to many young people who otherwise might not have been able to take part.

About 180 aspiring young performers and technicians will work alongside a highly skilled creative team for the next two weeks, culminating in five performances of a full-scale musical.

Applications for next year’s Summer Youth Project will open after Christmas.

Youngsters are encouraged to come along to a performance of Hairspray for a taste of what they can expect next year.

Hairspray runs at the Wyvern Theatre from Thursday, August 20 to Sunday, August 23.

To book tickets log on to swindontheatres.co.uk or call the Wyvern Theatre Ticket Office on 01793 524 481