A YOUNG stage star from Wrexham with the title role in a national stage show is returning close to her home town.

Back in the spring, talented 11-year-old Victoria Lewis, of Pandy, was chosen to play the part of Annie in the musical of the same name during its 25-week circuit of UK theatres.

And, from tomorrow, the tale of the New York orphan takes to the stage at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury.

Last year, Victoria played one of the orphans in the chorus of the show at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre.

Producers were so impressed with her performance they asked her to test for the starring role.

After a series of auditions in Lincoln in February and March, she was delighted to hear she had landed the plumb part, alongside comedienne Su Pollard, of Hi Di Hi fame, who plays Miss Hannigan.

The production hit the road in Bradford in August and goes on to for 16 dates until December 31.

The second leg of the tour lasts from January to June.

Victoria’s proud dad, Nigel Lewis, said: “Victoria attends the Bite Size youth theatre in Wrexham and has been fortunate enough to play in a number of productions
throughout the UK, including Oklahoma, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Fiddler on the Roof and The King and I.

“With the tour coming to Shrewsbury she is looking forward to seeing family and friends.”

“Obviously, she spends a lot of time away from home but she really enjoys it.

“She has a programme of schoolwork set out for her each term and she also has a tutor, so she is not missing out on her education.

“This is a great opportunity and we are very proud of her.”

Mr Lewis added: “Although she enjoys being on stage she always says she looks upon it as just a hobby and actually wants to be an architect when she leaves school.”

Anyone from Wrexham who would like to see the show in Shrewsbury can buy half-price tickets from Mr Lewis on 01978 851014.