Brighton's Emilio Crescenzo can consider himself a very talented actor. The 12-year-old has landed himself a part in the hit musical Oliver! at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, in London's West End. He is playing Captain in Fagan's gang.
Emilio, who started the role last month, stars alongside musical superstar Kerry Ellis (Elphaba in Wicked and Fantine in Les Misérables), who plays Nancy, and British television entertainer Russ Abbot, who plays Fagin.
A year-seven pupil at Blatchington Mill School, Emilio also attends the Italia Conti drama academy. He tells People: "This is the biggest thing I have done by far and I am really enjoying everything about it - the dancing, singing, acting and the costumes." He adds: "Russ Abbot is really nice."
Emilio was picked from hundreds of hopefuls to gain the part, which he is doing in addition to his school work and practicing for his barmitzvah. "Everyone has been supportive. They are going to come and see me in the summer holidays."
A member of the Hove Hebrew Congregation, Holland Road, Emilio says he would love to one day land a leading role in a West End musical. His favourite shows? "I really like Wicked and Billy Elliot." More? Oliver! of course.
