A RUNCORN gran is making her stage debut in a modern classic about a young girl with hidden talent.

Helen Jenkinson plays lead role in The Rise and Fall of Little Voice by Jim Cartright at The Brindley from March 8-10.

The production by Victoria Music Limited is raising money to fund weekly drop in craft and music sessions for people who feel isolated in Runcorn and Widnes.

Dad-of-four Rob Littler, 57, of Norman Road, Runcorn, founded the charity 11 years ago to give adults and children a platform to perform.

“I am passionate about giving parents on low incomes the chance to send their children to classes.

“Teaching kids who do not get many opportunities in life is very rewarding.I just love watching people develop and grow.”

He now wants to help more people build their confidence.

Helen took everyone by surprise, he said, when she auditioned for the drama.

Rob said: “She has only sung before and really blew us away when she auditioned as a character actress.

“This is the first time she will have acted in front of an audience.

“She is such a lady, quite demure. She is living a dream.”

Helen said: “Acting and singing was always my passion many years ago but there were no opportunities apart from school plays at the time so my dream died and the confidence went with it.

“I am so pleased and proud of myself getting this part. It has been so much fun working with the rest of the cast, it’s been difficult to keep a straight face.

“The script is hilariously funny, passionate with dialogue and accents that challenge my acting skills.”

Tickets are available from the box office on 0151-907-8360 and online at thebrindley.org.uk

The free drop-in sessions run from 1pm to 3pm every Thursday at St Michaels Church hall on Greenway Road, Runcorn and from 10am to 12noon every Friday at St Pauls Church hall, Victoria Square, Widnes