A RUNCORN schoolboy has landed the starring role in a musical.

Jake Ware fought off strong competition from hundreds of youngsters to secure the lead role of John Darling in Peter Pan.

The 11-year-old Grange School pupil, who attends Helen O’Grady Drama Academy, will be sharing the role.

Several other Runcorn and Widnes youngsters have also won auditions for the ensemble cast.

The children are now rehearsing for matinee and evening performances, which will be staged at The Brindley from July 27 to 30.

Director and writer Anne Dalton said: “I wanted to give so many of your talented children the opportunity of working with our company on this large scale production.

“I don’t normally take so many into this production on tour but I was so spoilt for choice at audition I couldn’t resist.”

Based on the much loved classic by JM Barrie, the musical is a swashbuckling romp from start to finish, fast paced and colourful with energetic fights and flying.

Apart from Peter Pan, The Darlings, Captain Hook, his sidekick Smee, the pirate crew of the Jolly Roger, Indians and lost boys there are some exciting episodes from Barrie’s original story introducing new friends.

The Never Bird, a nosey, know-it-all feathered friend, romps and gossips happily with the audience, leading them through the story.

Dancing planets and spheres light the way across the sky, water sprites and dragonflies inhabit the mermaid lagoon while the friendly flames help to rescue Peter.

Anne Dalton is best known for her sell out musical Her Benny, which won the International Quest For New Musicals, judged by Cameron Mackintosh and Richard Stilgoe, and is currently on tour along with several of her other musicals.

To book tickets call the box office on 0151 907 8360 or visit thebrindley.org.uk.