Local Performers Take To Stage In Grand Opera House

WHEN Gilbert & Sullivan’s celebrated operetta ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ opens at Belfast’s Grand Opera House in the next few weeks, Tyrone will be represented by two budding stars of the stage.

Neveah Devenney and Alex Rushe, both students at the ‘Much Ado Stage School’ in Castlederg, are taking part in the production after having been selected from hundreds of applicants through two tough rounds of auditions.

Both girls are practically veterans at their young age with roles in the likes of Grease, Annie and Charlie & The Chocolate Factory under their belts.

They will be part of the ensemble, and neither can wait to get started.

Neveah’s mother, Melissa, explains, “We saw an advertisement looking for people to take part and Neveah said she wanted to audition, so I took her up to Belfast for it.

“After two rounds, Neveah got the word she would be part of the show. Needless to say everyone was delighted for her.

“Neveah’s talents include singing, dance and drama. I knew she’d be perfect for the show.”

Alex said she is ‘thrilled’ to have been given the part.

“I heard about the auditions after my dad, who is also a performer, saw it advertised. So mum took me up to the auditons, and, like Neveah who I saw there, had to go through two rounds of auditions.

“I was nervous, but thankfully I got through it and was thrilled to be chosen for a part. It’s a wonderful opportunity.”

Both girls will have to go through two weeks of very intense rehearsals to be ready for opening night on July 22 and are up for the task.

Rois Kelly, owner of Much Ado Stage School, is over the moon that two of her students are going to be a part of the production

“We, at the school, are very proud of both Alex and Neveah, who put so much into their classes and are paving their way to successful careers.

“I think it’s fair to say we are bursting with pride at Much Ado Stage School!”