There will be a chance to see some of Southend's finest young actors from tonight when the Whitehall Performing Arts College takes to the stage in its first-ever production.

The students, who combine professional theatre training at Whitehall with A-level studies at the Eastwood School, are performing an original work - Thistles and Thorns.

They will be joined by younger performers aged from six to 16, who have successfully auditioned from the area's dance schools for the show, which will feature 30 youngsters.

Thistles and Thorns is a fantasy story. Hero Bramble, played by 18-year-old Lee Mead of Eastwood, falls in love with Princess Rose, played by Gemma Donnelly of Canvey, also 18.

The princess is under siege by the wicked sorcerer Spear, ruler of the Thistle kingdom. Will Bramble be able to help her, or could their love blind her to the real dangers?

The show is packed with beautiful dances, musical numbers and dazzling costumes made by Southend designer L'rain.

The show is directed and choreographed by Judy Kelly and Linda Issacs. Judy is a professional choreographer who has worked with Timmy Mallet and recently produced an all-male dance show for Joshua Galvin at the World Hair Show.

Linda, a former professional dancer, is head of classical ballet at Whitehall. She has created sensitive ballet scenes for the show, including a solo on pointe for Frances Gower in her role as Teasel.

Whitehall Performing Arts College is the result of a collaboration between Eastwood School and Whitehall Drama School, formerly based in Clatterfield Gardens, Westcliff.

The college first opened its doors to students last September and has enjoyed a successful first year. In the first round of examinations all the students passed with A grades.

Students have also appeared on a CD, filmed a promotional video and worked with fashion and charity shows to raise money for Children in Need.

The students have also enjoyed visits by eminent artists, including Christina Ballard, examiner and lecturer for the Imperial Society of Dancing.

Thistles and Thorns is at the Eastwood Studio Theatre, Eastwood School, Rayleigh Road, Leigh at 7.30pm tonight, until Thursday. Tickets from 01702 529290.

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