APPEARING with the Ipswich Operatic and Dramatic Society has given this teenager the chance to shine. Playing Nathan - the son of lead role Jerry in The Full Monty last week - the spotlight was on James as the youngest cast member at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe.

APPEARING with the Ipswich Operatic and Dramatic Society has given this teenager the chance to shine.

Playing Nathan - the son of lead role Jerry in The Full Monty last week - the spotlight was on James as the youngest cast member at the Spa Pavilion in Felixstowe.

He proved just how good he can be. A hit with the cast and a hit with critics, James was on stage throughout the show, portraying across some of the energetic show's most poignant moments.

James said: “It has been a brilliant experience. It's great being on stage and everyone has been so friendly and helpful.”

The 13-year-old student at Kesgrave High School, said acting has become a passion for him.

He said: “I love acting and performing. You can be somebody different.”

Landing the part in The Full Monty was James' first speaking part. He said: “I did have to work on my American accent but David Crane who is also in the show really helped me with that.”

Clearly enjoying himself on stage, and displaying a talent worth looking out for, James is keen to include acting in his future.

He added: “I've not really thought about what I'd like to do as a career but I'd love to act in the future. That would be my goal.”

James is today celebrating after already taking a step in the right direction. He is due to study part time at the renowned Sylvia Young Theatre School in London which has trained many famous faces.

James said: “I've been for three sessions so far and it's a lot of fun. I'm going there part time every Saturday. You get to learn a lot of new things.”

It was when James moved to Kesgrave High School he discovered the stage. He said: “When I got into high school we started to study drama. I just fell in love with it, acting, singing and dancing. I just love performing.”

Also keen on football and writing, James is a youngster looking forward to the future.

He added: “I want to give acting a go. I'll give it my best shot.”

, American writer>