A FELIXSTOWE singer and dancer is set to return to her home county in a leading role in a new Biblical pop musical which has already sold out at venues around the country.

A FELIXSTOWE singer and dancer is set to return to her home county in a leading role in a new Biblical pop musical which has already sold out at venues around the country.

Laura Cheadle, 23, is one of the performers in Luv Esther, which is to be presented at the Regent Theatre in Ipswich on June 4.

The fast-paced professional show, which is on a two-year national tour, is based on the Book of Esther, the 'Cinderella' story of how a young orphan and refugee becomes the Queen and then risks her life to save her nation from genocide in a thrilling, gripping and heartwarming story.

Laura, of Beach Road East, Felixstowe, performs as Haman's wife and a dancer in the production, which is produced by New Generation Ministries and written by its director Ray Goudie.

Having studied and trained at NGM, Laura has been with the production since its inception.

Laura, who has two sisters, Becki and Catherine, said: “The whole heart behind the musical is not just to entertain people but to also use it as a tool to raise awareness, missionaries and money for the AIDs pandemic in South Africa.

“To be involved in something that will make a difference to those children's lives is such a privilege.

“We pray as a cast that Luv Esther will inspire people in the church, young or old, from whatever background to do the same and make a difference for God in our nation.”

Her parents John and Maggie, both teachers, are promoting the Regent show.

Mr Cheadle said the show featured around 20 songs - an album has already been released - including rap, ballads, rock and African reggae.

He said: “All the cast are young Christians from NGM, an organisation which sends missionaries to youth culture in the UK.

“This is the second year of the UK tour, which now includes a week's run in London.

“As well as having a Christian message, once expenses of each show have been covered, the money from ticket sales and a retiring collection goes to support AIDS victims in Africa.”

WEBLINK: www.luvesther.com

Luv Esther will be on at the Regent Theatre in Ipswich on June 4 at 7.30pm. Tickets £10.