A FINCHINGFIELD youngster is set for stardom on the West End stage.

Hamish Debden-Sharp, aged 12, will be gracing the Victoria Palace Theatre as Tall Boy in Billy Elliot from November 29.

Having got into theatre from a young age, Hamish joined Scene II at the Dunmow Arts Centre and through their close links with Rosie Featherstone Agency Hamish was able to get an audition for the hit musical.

He recently completed his grade three drama exam for the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts, which he passed with flying colours so he seems well prepared to dazzle on the big stage.

Hamish said: “I am really excited but a bit nervous because there is no ‘go from the top’ – if you go wrong there is 2000 people peering down at you.

“But it’s going really well. I’ve had a few rehearsals which have gone well. I was a late addition so I was four weeks behind everyone else but I’m up to speed now.”

He now faces a long and exciting six months in the show which is now into its sixth year running at Victoria Palace. His mum, Clare Sharp, could not be prouder. She said: “I just think this is a fantastic opportunity for him and I am sure he will enjoy it.

“We have tickets for the opening night and then we’ll go a few times over the Christmas holidays with family.”

Despite the breakthrough Hamish is coy about is future, adding: “Depending on how this goes I will decide if the West End is what I want to do.

“If I find it really nerve wracking then I don’t want to go on with something I can’t do. I’d still like to do adverts and films at some point.”

Scene II director Mikki Rom said: “Hamish is a really nice boy and we’re really proud of him. He’s been with us three or four years and he’s has been involved with everything.

“He has worked really hard and he thoroughly deserves this part.”