A TALENTED Greenock girl who is named after an iconic character from a much-loved musical has landed her dream role - in the very show whose name she bears.
Annie Coleman, 12, will be starring as Annie in the Pantheon Theatre Glasgow's show at the King's Theatre in the city in January.
Clydeview Academy pupil Annie, whose younger brother Oliver is also named after the title character in another hit West End musical, said she's 'really happy' to be playing her favourite character and singing her favourite song on stage.
She said: "It's my dream role.
"My mum says I've been singing Tomorrow since before I could speak. It's my favourite song.
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"I'm very grateful for this amazing opportunity and I'm really enjoying it."
Annie goes to Thistle Theatre Company, based at The Albany in Greenock, and has starred in several local productions.
Her mum Victoria saw the role of Annie in the Pantheon production advertised in the summer, and said there was no doubt that the youngster was going to go for the part.
It was Annie's first time auditioning for a role in a production outside of Inverclyde, but she wowed the audition panel with her amazing performances of two of the show's best known numbers, It's A Hard Knock Life and Tomorrow, as well as her dancing and acting skills.
Annie said she's really excited to be working with such a talented cast of children and adults - and a wee dog who will be playing the role of Sandy.
She added: "I've learned a lot. Everyone is so nice.
"I just love performing and showing everyone what I can do.
"I'm so excited to perform my favourite song on stage in Glasgow.
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"I would love to be on Broadway one day."
Annie was coached at Dance1Studio for 10 years, and has recently joined the Jackson Dance and Performing Arts Studio.
She's been with singing teacher Elysia Wilson for four years, and goes to piano lessons with Necole McAulay.
Victoria says she and Annie's dad Peter will be going to the show, which runs from January 14 to 18, every night to see their girl, and friends and family will be going along too.
Victoria studied drama with Carol Fry when she was a youngster, and loved the character of Annie so much that she named her daughter after her.
She added: "I can't put into words how proud I am. I'm very emotional about it.
"When I found out she had the part, I had to be brought down from the ceiling!
"I see how hard she works, and how much effort she puts in.
"She’s so laid back about it all, and has a really good attitude.
"She's loving the whole experience."
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