THE Wyvern Theatre’s fantastic annual Summer Youth Project gets underway next week, as youngsters begin rehearsals for this year’s production, the musical Oliver! based on Charles Dickens’ famous novel about an orphan who asked for more.

Following the success of last year’s Summer Holiday, some 200 youngsters aged nine to 21 will enjoy the opportunity to work together in a professional theatre.

The cast has been selected, and now the youngsters have two weeks to prepare and present five performances of a full-scale musical under the supervision of a highly skilled creative team including a professional director, choreographer, musical director, musicians and technical team.

The project gives local children a unique opportunity to take an active interest in the performing arts and several previous project members have gone on to study at theatre and dance schools. This is also a fantastic opportunity to make new friends.

Rehearsals begin on Monday and the performances are August 23 to 25. Tickets cost £14.50 - £16. To book, call 01793 524481 or visit swindontheatres.co.uk.