AN OSWESTRY girl is set to follow in the footsteps of actors like Eddie Redmayne and Idris Elba after being selected to perform in the National Youth Music Theatre.

Moreton Hall student Maya Falah is celebrating being selected after taking part in open auditions to perform in leading London theatres.

Auditions are designed to be extremely challenging and Maya chose to travel to Liverpool for the opening round – this year welcomed a record number of auditionees.

Other patrons of the company include esteemed actors such as Jude Law, Sheriden Smith and Matt Lucas.

Maya said she is over the moon after learning she has been selected.

She said: “I had to take part in a dance, acting and singing workshop. I had to prepare one song in advance but the rest of the material I learnt on the day.

“That Tuesday I received an email saying I was through to the recalls in Westminster for the show Legend Trippers. This new musical is about a group of children solving murders and mysteries, very much in the line of The Famous Five and the Netflix series Stranger Things.

“They sent me the material I had to learn which was just under two weeks away. I had to learn a dance routine, a monologue and prepare a few songs.

“My audition was recorded throughout and sent to judges in Chicago. After a week I received an email saying I had been offered a place. I felt over the moon!”

Director of Music at Moreton Hall, Helen Rayner, added: “We are thrilled that Maya has earned herself a place on the National Youth Music Theatre course this year: it is thoroughly deserved and clearly reflects the breadth and depth of music making at Moreton.”

Drama teacher Michael Jenkins said he feels “extremely proud” of Maya.

He said: “The National Youth Musical Theatre is one of the most prestigious and well-respected part-time training providers for young performers. Over the years it has provided a springboard into the industry for many up-and-coming artists.

“I am extremely proud of Maya. She worked tirelessly to rehearse her pieces. Her continued dedication to drama and music has once again paid off.”

Maya will be performing from August 12 until August 17 in The Other Palace Theatre in London as well as participating in the Christmas concert at St Johns Smith Square.