THREE lucky young performers have landed parts in The Met’s Christmas production after successfully completing their first audition.

Lily Kenny, aged nine, of Heywood, and 12-year-old Joseph Beckett, of Bolton Road, Radcliffe, will take to the stage alongside professional actors in The Secret Garden this December.

Also starring in the play is Little Lever nine-year-old Lily Ellis, the daughter of actress Emma Matthews who runs Bury drama school Theatre Works where all three children train.

Emma said: “As a working actor I have good links with people in the industry, meaning the kids at Theatre Works have a good chance of getting auditions and professional jobs.”

Emma, who recently starred in Prisoner’s Wives as Vicki, launched Theatre Works this summer after running a drama school in Cheshire for 10 years.

Joseph’s mum Michelle added: “I am so proud of Joseph for landing a part after his first audition. Since starting Theatre Works I have seen a massive improvement in his confidence and he now loves being the centre of attention.”

Theatre Works also recently had a visit from a famous face when Emmerdale actor Sammy Winward held a workshop for students.

Emma added: “Sammy has played Katie in Emmerdale since the age of 15 so has a wealth of experience.

“She has held workshops in acting for TV, working on TV scripts and holding a question and answer session.

“Everyone loved the opportunity to get a real insight into the profession of acting.”

Theatre Works, based at Bury Parish Church in Silver Street, offers coaching in acting, show work, acting for camera, dance and singing for groups aged three to six and ages eight to 18.

Classes take place between 1.30pm and 2.30pm for youngsters and between 2.30pm and 5.30pm for older children, and cost £5 per hour.

For more information, call Emma on 07773 214380 or Lauren on 07999 634208, search Theatre Works School Bury on Facebook or follow @Theatreworksuk on Twitter.