SHOPPERS at the outlet village had the chance to meet two rising stars who are about to hit the stage at The Wyvern Theatre this weekend.

Students from Rising Aspirations Academy of Performing Arts were at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet earlier this week where the star of their latest production of Annie was on hand to carry out some meet and greet sessions – along with her four-legged friend Sandy.

This weekend’s performances will be Rosie the dog's first time performing on a stage, and Lily Cole’s first major role in the title character of Annie. Lily has attended Rising Aspirations for many years, first in Little Stars, and is now a member of the main school where she has been learning drama, singing and dance as part of her lessons.

Lily said: “My favourite song is 'Maybe' because it is my first solo song and it explains all Annie's feelings about how she imagines her parents to be. I feel really excited that I am performing as Annie and get to sing her songs.

"My favourite memory from rehearsals was meeting 'Sandy' (Rosie) at Swindon Dancing Dogs. I liked meeting all the dogs and getting a special lick from 'Sandy'.

"I love our annual productions as it is a chance for us all to perform and have fun together.”

Saturday is Rising Aspirations' sixth annual major production. The musical will be performed by pupils in the school aged between three and 18 years. There will also be a live show band accompanying the many memorable songs, such as 'Tomorrow' and 'Hard Knock Life'.

The musical tells the tale of a young girl named Annie who lives a life of torment and misery at an orphanage at the hands of Miss Hannigan. Setting out on a mission to find her real parents she encounters some good luck when she spends Christmas the home of a famous billionaire. But Miss Hannigan has other ideas.

Kathy Carter, Rising Aspirations Academy of Performing Arts’ founder and principal, said they had been working incredibly hard in the run up to opening night and were hoping to impress their audiences with their take on the popular musical.

She said: “Everybody at Rising Aspirations is incredibly excited for the show, especially to be working with a live dog! Annie is a family favourite musical to be enjoyed by all the family.”

The curtain will go up on two performances on Saturday, the first at 2pm and a second evening performance at 7pm.

Tickets cost £12 for adults and £10 for under 16s and are available by calling the Wyvern Theatre box office on 01793 524481 or from their website at www.swindontheatres.co.uk