AN ASPIRING Alloa performer has realised a lifelong dream after getting to share the stage with one of musical theatre's biggest stars.

Sarah Kerr, 21, who is currently training for a BA (hons) degree in Musical Theatre at The MGA Academy of Performing Arts in Edinburgh, was given the opportunity to provide backing vocals for West End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis during her 20th anniversary concert at The Queen's Hall in Edinburgh.

The former Lornshill Academy pupil decided to embark on her current course two years ago, after deciding she'd rather carve out a career on stage than continue studying for a degree in sport and recreational management at university.

She was delighted to work with Kerry, who is widely considered to be one of musical theatre's biggest stars and has previously performed in Wicked, We Will Rock You, My Fair Lady, Miss Saigon, Oliver! and Les Miserables.

Sarah said: "I've always loved performing, but used to think of it as a hobby rather than a career path.

"Everything changed when I was cast in a production of Bring It On at The King's Theatre in Edinburgh as I realised just how much I enjoyed being in rehearsals and performing on stage.

"I've been a fan of Kerry Ellis' work for years and getting to perform with her was a dream come true for me. The first show I ever saw in London's West End was Wicked and I remember being so impressed by her performance.

"I was taken for my eleventh birthday and I got to meet Kerry at the stage door afterwards. Back then, I'd never have believed that I'd get to share the stage with her 10 years later."

Kerry added: "Performing my 20th anniversary show in Edinburgh was great as I love performing there and am always welcomed with such warmth.

"I was honoured to have had students from The MGA Academy join me onstage as I have always been a huge supporter of the work they do.

"I was impressed with how professional all the students were and loved how much fun they brought to the show."

The MGA Academy last year became the first full-time professional training academy in Scotland to be awarded accreditation by CDMT, the UK's quality assurance and membership body for the professional dance, drama and musical theatre industries.

Drew Gowland, co-founder and managing director of The MGA Academy, said: "For more than a decade, we have been providing students like Sarah with exceptional training on par with London's leading dance and drama schools.

"We are thrilled that our students will now also receive academic recognition from Bath Spa University when they graduate.

"Our training has allowed our graduates to build successful international careers on stage and screen and now they will also leave with a degree, enabling them to pursue professional teaching work and postgraduate-level study.

"We are currently holding auditions for courses and would welcome applications from people with similar aspirations to Sarah."

To apply for a place at The MGA Academy of Performing Arts, visit themgaacademy.com/apply