A BALLET dancer is set to share the stage with international professionals in a double bill show.

Esmé Dobson, from Rainford, will be starring in English Youth Ballet's Sleeping Beauty- Aurora’s Wedding and Ballet Études in three shows at The Sands Centre in Carlisle on September 21 and 22.

The eight-year-old, who joined the Elizabeth Hill School of Dance and Drama in Denton's Green five years ago, will be in the production alongside eight international principal dancers.

Rainford Brook Lodge Primary School pupil Esmé is one of the 90 dancers aged from eight to 18 that have passed auditions to play a role in the double bill.

They include Philip Tunstall, Monica Tapiador, Samantha Camejo, Clair Corruble and Oliver Speers.

Her mum Katie, 34, said: "We are really proud of Esmé- it’s great to see her doing what she loves.

"She is really excited to be performing in the shows and is looking forward to dancing with the professional dancers.

"It will be a brilliant learning experience for Esmé to dance with both them and her peers."

Esmé has already performed in a pantomime at the St Helens Theatre Royal and regularly competes in dance festivals in the region.

To book tickets for the event contact The Sands Centre box office on 01228 633766 or visit thesandscentreco.uk.