TAKE 250 children, 11 days, heaps of enthusiasm, loads of talent and you have Wycombe Swan Summer Youth Project.

The children aged ten to 19 are putting on Pirates of Penzance during the summer holiday.

More than 500 children went along to the auditions two months ago to try to win a place in the prestigious show.

Joy Campbell, project co-ordinator, says: "We were looking for enthusiasm and energy not just talent."

When rehearsals begin the children will be put through a gruelling 10 hour day to get the show ready for opening night on Thursday, August 6.

Nick Heath, 19, from Cookham, who stars as Fredric, says: "It is one of the few opportunities in the area where you can play to a full house every night."

The ex-Royal Grammar School pupil is going on to the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in September.

Vicky Instone, 19, from Holmer Green, who plays the governess, explains that she gave up a family holiday in Greece to appear in the show. Vicky has been in the summer project productions four times.

She says: "It is the best two weeks of my life."

Michelle Wesson, 19, from Marlow, is another principal character taking on the role of Edith. Michelle is no stranger to the stage she has already trodden the boards in the West End in Les Miserables. And she has appeared in Inspector Morse.

But the summer youth project isn't just about the children who act. Youngsters also take on other jobs in the profession by doing work backstage.Lindi Bilgorri

% The Pirates of Penzance is on at Wycombe Swan from Thursday, August 6 to Saturday, August 8. Telephone the box office for more details and tickets (01494) 512000

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