FROM the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg to the tranquility of Stow was a big step for actor Janine Hornsby but it was all part of a journey she hopes will lead to a career in theatre.

Janine, aged 23, is about to make her acting debut in the Playhouse Company's production of Sitting Pretty in Cheltenham.

Last year she graduated with a BA in dramatic arts from the University of the Witwatersrand in her home city of Johannesburg.

"Before I could celebrate my degree I was waving goodbye to family and friends and moving to the UK to gain experience in the arts world.

"It was quite a shock finding myself in Stow, after living in big city, but while paying my dues as a waitress, I went in search of theatre and found the Playhouse."

As well as working on Sitting Pretty, Janine is also teaching budding actors at the Playhouse's Theatre Studio and has also been involved in teaching the arts to youngsters at a youth group in Stow.

"I've enjoyed the teaching experience so much that I've now moved to Cheltenham and want to teach full-time as well as exploring my acting career," said Janine.

Sitting Pretty is by Amy Rosenthal, daughter of celebrated writer Jack Rosenthal and the actress Maureen Lipman. It tells the story of middle- aged spinster Nancy (Sue Bennett) who finds a new lease of life by posing nude for an art class.

Janine plays Zelda, the model she replaces and who, in her own way, finds a new life by breaking her relationship with art teacher Philip (Steve Evans).

"It's a lovely play, very funny but with a lot of truth about people and relationships," said Janine.

Sitting Pretty is at the Playhouse from Saturday, October 8 until Saturday, October 15. Box office: 01242 522852.