Audiences attending St Albans Youth Music Theatre’s production of the modern Disney classic High School Musical this week may be in the presence of future greatness, if the group’s track record of turning out stars is anything to go by.

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Former members of St Albans Youth Music Theatre (SAYMT) range from TV and theatre actors to West End stars and successful musicians. Alumni include Holby City actor Adam Astill, S Club 7 star Paul Cattermole, musical theatre actor Sarah Whittuck, professional musician Nick Stephenson, dancer Edd Mitton and RSC actor Daniel Fraser, to name just a few. Many more have won places to drama school and/or performed with the National Youth Theatre (NYT) or National Youth Music Theatre (NMYT).

According to director Ellena Ophira, herself a former SAYMT and NYT member, several of the High School Musical cast are planning a career in the theatre or music business, and a few have already auditioned for and even performed in professional productions.

“SAYMT is a great springboard for any young person looking to try their hand at performing, whether they have professional aspirations or are just looking for a fun, social activity,” she says.

“It encourages discipline and boosts confidence while also teaching key performance skills and, most exciting of all, giving members the chance to perform in a real theatre. The Abbey Theatre’s facilities are so close to those of many professional theatres that it really does give a taste of what it might be like to do this as a career.”

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Elouise Wathan, who plays Kelsi Neilson in the show, says: “It’s my dream to pursue an acting career and being part of SAYMT gives me the chance to experience what that might be like. I love it: I get to learn so much and work with my friends on so many brilliant shows.”

A modern twist on Romeo and Juliet, High School Musical tells the story of high school students Troy and Gabriella, who fall for each other despite being from rival friendship groups.

Performances take place on the main stage at the Abbey Theatre at 7.30pm on Thursday 10, Friday 11 and Saturday 12 April. A matinee performance at 2.30pm on Saturday has already sold out.

To book tickets go to www.abbeytheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01727 857861.