TALENTED students will spend the summer in intensive rehearsals after earning roles in a theatrical youth project.

Rachel Cottee, 15, and Leonie Hunt, 17, of Ormiston Rivers Academy in Burnham, will be performing in the musical West Side Story at The Palace Theatre in Southend as part of their youth project, after beating down competition from more than 120 other young people.

West Side Story is a musical in which a modern day Romeo and Juliet are involved in New York street gangs. On the harsh streets of the upper west side, two gangs battle for control of the turf. The situation becomes complicated when a gang members falls in love with a rival's sister.

Auditions were held in July, with Rachel and Leonie learning a song and dance routine for the musical, and will both be in featured roles as members of the Jets Gang.

Rachel, of Maldon Road, Burnham, said: “I know it will be hard work, but also a lot of fun and a great opportunity to make new friends and to work with and learn from a superb team of professionals.

“I have a particular love of dance and West Side Story is a wonderful musical with fantastic dance routines - I can’t wait to start rehearsals.”

Leonie, of Dragon Close, said “There are some long rehearsals prior to the show, but I’m really looking forward to the final results of all the hard work.

“I’m planning to go into Performing Arts as a career, so this is a great opportunity to gain an insight into working in this profession.”

West Side Story will run from Thursday August 10 to Sunday August 13 at The Southend Palace Theatre.

Visit www.palacetheatresouthend.co.uk.