Hereford Cathedral schoolboy, James Wisker has been offered the opportunity by the National Youth Music Theatre to star in one of its six key projects for 2002.

James, 13 was chosen to star in 'The Generator', which will be devised and developed by the NYMT's artistic team, in collaboration with the company members, in an intensive rehearsal period during the Edinburgh Festival this summer.

Following a workshop performance, the company may take the production on an international tour - an experience which will only add to James' current skills.

Determination

Over two thousand young people between the age of 10 and 19 were auditioned during the theatre company's talent-spotting national audition campaign in January. The lucky ones went on to London for a recall, where the final castings for this year's projects were made.

For James, this latest success represents just one of a clutch of feathers in his burgeoning theatrical cap.

In the past year he has participated in filming on Channel 4's 'Teachers' and for Carlton TV's film 'Bertie and Elizabeth' as part of the Queen's Golden Jubilee.

James trains with Hereford Stagecoach Theatre Arts as well as being heavily involved with the Cathedral School's own theatre work.

"Hard work and determination" is the advice that celebrity Denise Van Outen offered James when he met her last year - and it looks like standing him in good stead.

His singing coach, George Banks-Martin credits James' tenacity in achieving what he really wants.

Opportunity

"His voice has developed and strengthened a lot over the past year," he said.

"He's more relaxed when he's singing and very determined."

James' mother, Geraldine Wisker, is excited that James has been given this opportunity to work with professional producers and directors and will definitely be travelling up to Scotland to see him perform.

"Being selected by such a prestigious company only confirms that he's got the talent to take him places," she said.

"His father and I are really proud."