Sheffield schoolgirl stars on West End stage for Christmas production

Talented Freya Yates, who is now aged 12 and a pupil at Tapton School, plays Susan in the timeless classic White Christmas at the Dominion Theatre, which runs until January 4.

She is no stranger to treading the boards, having played Annie in a production that toured the UK earlier this year and also in the School of Rock at the West End in summer 2018.

Freya said: “I can’t believe only two years ago I was attending auditions at this theatre and now I’m performing in it!”

And mum Abigail added: “Playing the only child in the show has lots of advantages and they do spoil the girls (who share the role of Susan)

“Performing at Christmas is such a magical time of year.

“Freya is treading the boards along side some big names such as Danny Mac, Brenda Edwards and Michael Brandon at one of the biggest theatres in London.”

Freya was just three years old when she caught the acting bug.

After starting singing and dancing lessons a year earlier, the Sheffield tot landed her first role in a local production of Aladdin shortly after turning four.

Two years later, she joined a theatre group and, following a group trip to watch a professional production of Matilda, attended a theatre workshop for kids.

Her dream of taking to the stage came true earlier than most, as she joined the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s School of Rock last January.

With the show Annie she appeared at venues right across the country and has already been given several five star reviews for her performances.

She had to learn the musical’s enormous and legendary book – including all of red headed Annie’s famous songs and lines.

To balance school and stage commitments, Freya has a tutor to keep up with classes while she is performing in London.

Abigail added: “Freya is enjoying every minute and is already wondering what 2020 has in store for her . “Working closely with Stagebox Management Freya is hoping her dream of landing a film role is her next step.”