BUDDING young thespians have been tirelessly rehearsing to bring a musical to Worcester and one of the "most challenging" plays to a Hereford stage.

Sold out weeks before opening night, Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society Youth Section's production of Les Miserables (School Edition) looks sure to be a smash hit with audiences at the Faithful City's Swan Theatre.

It may be labelled School Edition, but the version, opening on Tuesday, is virtually identical to the much-loved West End and Broadway production that has been wowing audiences for two decades.

To be given the green light to stage the musical was a great honour for the Worcester youngsters as amateur licences for the show are rarely awarded.

Producer and director David Humphries, who is leading an experienced and energetic cast of 65 talented eight to 18 year olds, said: "This is going to be a fantastic show.

"The audience is in for a treat because of some unusual and surprising staging.

"I'm very pleased that it has sold out. I think this is obviously due to the show, but also the fact that WODYS are building on their reputation as recent shows have also sold out."

And youngsters from Hereford are about to show off their skills in Kes at The Courtyard theatre in the city.

The 14 to 23-year-olds have taken on the roles in the play, which is based on Barry Hines' A Kestrel For a Knave, and was later made into a popular film by Ken Loach.

The young people involved have all been rehearsing hard under the direction of Estelle van Warmelo, professional director and Courtyard Senior Youth Theatre director.

She said: "Kes is one of the most moving, exhilarating and disturbing pieces this extraordinary young company has tackled in its six-year history."

Based in 1960s Barnsley, Kes follows the story of Billy - a young, uneducated boy who struggles with his place in the world.

When he discovers the art of falconry he feels his sense of identity is within reach, until his brother's bully-boy tactics go that bit too far.

Estelle added: "Sixties Barnsley may be worlds away from the experience of most of us, but Billy's story is sadly familiar.

"All too often we encounter the misfit, sparks of individuality and giftedness overlooked."

The young Herefordshire actors will be performing Kes from Tuesday until Saturday.