A LOCAL schoolboy from Melksham, Zachary Green, has taken on his first acting role, playing Dickens’ famous character, Oliver Twist, at the Arc Theatre in Trowbridge playing to sell-out crowds.
Auditions for Oliver took place in January and Zachary was one of two boys selected from a turnout of over 50 children to play Charles Dickens’ iconic character, Oliver Twist, the boy who wanted more. Having never applied or auditioned for a part in a play before, he was astounded to find he had been given a principal role by the Trowbridge Amateur Operatic Society (TAOS).
Zach’s father, Allen said, “With his flair for entertaining, and an extraordinary amount of confidence for an 8 year old, it is no shock to us that he is taking to the stage, only more surprising that it has taken this long for his theatrical debut.
He attended rehearsals twice a week, as well as countless hours’ practising at home, even giving some of his fellow pupils and his teachers at Lacock School a sneak performance of the song “Where Is Love”.
Musical director of the show, Chris Anderson said, “Zach has done an amazing job, he nailed the song ‘Where Is Love’, it felt good! He’s been an absolute blast to work with and he is such a polite, kind-hearted and talented lad. So much potential for great things!”
Anna Mazan, show choreographer said “He’s such a lovely little boy. I’m so pleased he came to audition! He is very talented. He’s been a pleasure to work with and he’s really worked so hard. I hope he carries on with his singing, dancing and acting, he’s a little superstar.”
Zach said, “I was so happy after my first performance. It felt so good, and when I saw my sisters after the show, I was so overwhelmed that I cried.
“My favourite part was the curtain call, it felt amazing, hearing everyone clapping and cheering, there’s nothing like it. I’ve loved working with TAOS, all the cast and crew have been so nice and I hope I get to work with them again.”
Zach is keen to keep the momentum going, and his parents are now looking around at other local theatre companies/casting agents to keep him on his journey.
Above: Zachary Green on stage as Oliver Twist. Picture: Rod Stowell
