A KIDDERMINSTER youngster has been cast in a principle role in a musical which opens in Birmingham, before touring UK theatres.

Nine-year-old Katelyn-Janet Rollason will star in Nativity the Musical which opens at Birmingham Repertory Theatre in October.

The Elements Dance Company student has been cast in the school choirs that feature in the musical - based on the popular Christmas film starring Martin Freeman.

She will start rehearsals in September, before performing in Birmingham for three weeks - and then heading off on tour visiting theatres in Southend, Manchester, Sheffield and London.

Katelyn-Janet's mother, Nicola, said: "This is really quite an opportunity for her. She's really excited about it all.

"It is her first proper role she has been eligible to audition for as she is only nine. She's had major roles in her dance company's pantomimes, but this was her first formal audition.

"She will be filming the trailer for the musical, which will be shown on television, and then rehearsals start in October.

"When she goes away on tour for four months, it will be her first trip away from home."

For more information about Nativity the Musical, visit nativitythemusical.com.