TWO young Kidderminster actors will be in the spotlight when they perform in a musical adaptation of a popular Charles Dickens' novel.

Timmy and Richard Spalding, of Hill Grove Crescent, Kidderminster, will join more than 50 other actors and singers in the Carpet Trades Operatic Society's production of the musical Oliver!

Eleven-year-old Timmy, who attends the Royal Grammar School in Worcester, and 15-year-old Richard, who is a pupil at King Charles I High School in Kidderminster, have been chosen to play the roles of Oliver and the Artful Dodger in the show.

The show will be staged at the Civic Centre in Stourport from October 17 until October 22.

Timmy said: "I have had a few parts in school plays before but this will be the first time that I have sung solo. I have been driving everyone mad at home, practising all my songs, but I hope it will pay off during show week."

Richard said: "I was lucky enough to be chosen to play The Artful Dodger for Chaddesley Corbett Operatic Society last year - it was great and that's really helped me as I've had less lines to learn. I am really excited about the show too, I have never performed in such a big production."

Oliver! features many popular songs by Lionel Bart including, Food, Glorious Food, Consider Yourself and Pick a Pocket or Two.

The role of Fagin will be played by Nigel Preece who was last on stage with the society in 2001 as the character Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof.

Show producer, Darren Richards, said: "Little Oliver Twist is famous for asking for 'more' and that's certainly what we are aiming to give our audiences. The show is packed with memorable songs, which I am sure everyone will enjoy."

He added 70 people had been involved in the production and he expected the show to be popular, adding: "It is probably one of the best selling shows for amateurs to do."

The show will start at 7.30pm with a matinee performance on Saturday at 2.30pm.

More information and tickets can be obtained by contacting 01299 403851 or 01562 638864.