By Joe Webb

A DREAM has come true for young dancer Samuel Banks after landing two roles with a professional ballet company.


Samuel, 10, a pupil at Eastington Primary School, will star in the English Youth Ballet's production of The Sleeping Beauty after successfully auditioning alongside the region's most talented dancers.


He will take to the stage at the Playhouse Theatre in Weston-Super-Mare and will perform the roles of a charm dancer and Hop O My Thumb as part of a young cast of 81 dancers for three performances in March.


Samuel, who lives in Stonehouse with his mum Claire, dad Matt and older sister Eleanor, 13, said: "I'm really excited as it will be the biggest stage I have ever performed on.


"The rehearsals have been going well and I'm really looking forward to playing the parts."


Samuel, who attends ballet, tap and jazz classes at the Sally Prout School of Dancing, is currently taking part in a 10-day intensive rehearsal process in preparation  for the show.


His mum Claire said: "He loves dancing, he is always leaping and twirling around the house.


"There is a lot of driving taking him to and from all his dance lessons and rehearsals but it will be worth it seeing him perform with the English Youth Ballet. It is a great opportunity for him."


The Sleeping Beauty is on Friday, March 8, at 7.30pm, and Saturday, March 9, at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. To book tickets call the box office on 01934 645544.