Three students from a Bromley performing arts academy have secured lead roles in a new West End production.

The students, who attend B&B Academy of Performing Arts in Bromley Road, will star in a new production of Bugsy Malone at the Lyric Hammersmith.

Rhianna Dorris, 13, from Beckenham will play the lead female role of Tallulah and Jaydah Bell-Ricketts, 10, from Brockley will play Lena/Baby Face.

Rhianna, 13,  said, “Playing Tallulah is a massive dream come true.

"Ever since I was young I have absolutely loved the film of Bugsy Malone and to be part of it on stage is so much fun especially playing Tallulah, who is very sassy and cool as well as mature.

“To be part of a West End show and performing my heart out is amazing.”

Jaydah, 10,  said: “Being in a West End show feels a bit unreal but the rehearsals are going well and everyone is so kind and supportive that I haven’t been nervous.”

Vincent Finch, 14, from Tenterten in Kent is also a pupil at the school and has got the part of Fat Sam.

He said: “I was walking along with a friend, when I got a call from my Mum telling me that I had got the part. I was speechless, but not for long!"

Several D&B actors have had West End success.

Jamila Ajadi made her West End debut last year as Lena/Baby Face in the 2015 production and Mark Boyle and Scott McGivern appeared in the 1997 production of Bugsy Malone at the Apollo Victoria Theatre.

D&B Director Bonnie Sullivan said, “We are all absolutely thrilled for Rhianna, Vincent and Jaydah who are gifted young performers."

The show will run for 12-weeks, directed by Sean Holmes, and will be performed by three different casts in rotation.

Previews start on June 11.

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