Anna Nalborczyk A SCHOOLBOY has been plucked from obscurity to take the lead role in a West End production of Bugsy Malone. Alex Crandon, 12, of Ripley View, Loughton, will be starring as Bugsy at the Bloomsbury Theatre in central London this month. The year seven pup

Anna Nalborczyk

A SCHOOLBOY has been plucked from obscurity to take the lead role in a West End production of Bugsy Malone.

Alex Crandon, 12, of Ripley View, Loughton, will be starring as Bugsy at the Bloomsbury Theatre in central London this month.

The year seven pupil from West Hatch High School, High Road, Chigwell, said: "It is amazing, but very scary at the same time.

"It will be quite nerve-racking to perform in a real theatre and I am quite nervous, but I'm really looking forward to it."

The show runs for six dates from April 13 until April 22, and Alex will be making an appearance on the opening night and on April 15.

He said: "I have always loved acting and the theatre but this is the first time that I've had the lead role. I can't believe it."

Alex sang Bad Guys from the musical in his audition and battled through several heats before being offered the title role.

His dad Ivor said: "Alex has been involved in acting from a young age.

"He lives and breathes it.

"He shines out from the rest of the crowd and we are very proud of him."

The youngster, who is a member of the Funky Beats dance and drama school, has previously auditioned for parts in West End shows Oliver and Billy Elliot.

Ivor said: "Alex has had some professional training in acting from a young age but it was more confidence building exercises, a lot of stuff is off his own back.

"It is quite an achievement for him and he's hoping it could lead to something else."

The show is being produced by Make Believe and proceeds will be donated to various charities which include Great Ormond Street Hospital, Fight For Life, and The Guide Dogs Association.