A SCHOOLBOY has secured an all-singing, all-dancing role in a musical after impressing in auditions.

Barnard Castle School pupil Mathew Kerr will tread the boards at Durham Gala Theatre in March in three performances of Carousel.

“The auditions went well and they knew me from taking part in a production last year,” said the 12-year-old, of Darlington. “I was really pleased and excited to be cast, particularly as there aren’t that many boys in the show. Rehearsing and performing is hard work but also great fun and you make a lot of friends.”

Mathew has been a keen performer since Preparatory School, has singing lessons, plays piano and is a member of Stagecoach.

Headmaster Alan Stevens said: “Mathew is a prime example of how our school can nurture talent and allow young people to make important steps towards achieving their dreams. Music and theatre remain crucial elements to the education we offer because they are pivotal in engaging students in their overall studies and helping them grow in confidence.”