AN up-and-coming star who grew up in Worces-tershire has landed a role in a Gilbert and Sullivan West End production.

Alex Weatherhill, formerly of Colwall, near Malvern, got his big break last year when he won a lead role in the hit musical Chicago.

The 28-year-old is now preparing for his second major part, as the romantic Frederick in Pirates of Penzance, due to be staged on board a replica of Sir Francis Drake's ship, the Golden Hinde moored in the Thames, London.

The former Worcester Royal Grammar School pupil, who gained valuable experience in the Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society, the Malvern Light Opera Society and Midland Musical Theatre Group, said: "It's going to be quite an innovative production. It is completely different."

He said Frederick was a mainstream part, which should make him more appealing in the industry.

"It will be good for me because the parts I have previously played have been so specialised that casting directors couldn't see me in another role - so this will be good for my career," he said.

Mr Weatherhill, who now lives in Middlesex, has also set up his own cabaret production company called van der blast, and has already written two shows.

He aims to take his knowledge of cabaret and apply it to the West End.

He said he would consider moving back to Worcestershire one day, depending on how long his stage career lasts.

"The Big Smoke is not my ideal place to live, but it is where the work and the auditions are," he said.

Pirates of Penzance will run from Thursday, July 27, to Sunday, September 3.

For more information or tickets readers should visit www.oceantheatre.com