Two Epsom teenagers will be taking the stage at Leatherhead Theatre with a troop of professional actors on a production for the Railway Children musical this November.

Romy Clarkson, 14, and Ben Banyard, 17 both from Epsom, will play the roles of Phyllis and Jim in this musical adaptation of Edith Nesbit’s much-loved classic, staged and directed by Michael Strassen.

They will gain valuable experience of working in professional repertory theatre before they both aim to develop their skills in preparation for a career on the stage.

Ben, who is in his first year of studying for his A Levels at Blenheim High School, said: “I am thrilled to be joining Leatherhead Rep for this production of the Railway Children and can not wait to learn from and perform with this fantastic team”.

Katherine Mount, producer of the season said: “We are so pleased to have been able to offer this opportunity to some local young people.

“Repertory theatre was the training ground for many of this country’s best-loved actors and it’s a privilege to be able to continue this tradition.

“We are very much looking forward to working with Romy and Ben, they are both very talented and we shall be following their future careers with interest”.

The Railway Children runs from November 15 to to 17, with evening, matinees and school performances.

Tickets are available from £18 on www.leatherheadrep.com or from the box office on 01372365141.