Superstardom could be just around the corner for a teenage actor from Hatfield Peverel.
Oliver Jones, 16, landed himself a part in a rock and roll version of Romeo and Juliet with theatre company Pinpoint Productions.
He hoped to clinch the lead role in the tragedy but had to settle for the part of Juliet's villainous cousin Tibolt.
The part also comes with a coveted Equity card, opening the door for future stage work.
Drama teacher Sharon Heare is thrilled Oliver has been given his big break.
"Oliver is my star pupil and it's brilliant that he's got his Equity card," she said. "He has always wanted to act professionally. Now he is set up for his career.
Schoolpal Sarah Gore, 17, who also attends Witham Sixth Form Centre, was less lucky in love and failed to get through tough auditions for the part of Juliet. The production will be staged at Southend's studio theatre in the Kursaal in October.
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