Harley Speed, 11, will be picking a pocket or two as one of Fagin's gang in the world-famous show from December 14.

And the Janice Sutton School of Dance star is already in line for an extension of his contract from four months to eight.

Harley, who goes to Skegness Grammar School, said: "I'm really enjoying it and I just can't wait to get to the shows.

"We do all different things in the gang – singing, dancing and speaking. I get on Bill Sykes' shoulders (during the pickpocket song]."

Harley has been wowing audiences as one of Janice Sutton's stars since he was five and dreams of a career in the theatre.

His mum Sarah, dad Richard and big sister Jade are all really proud of him.

Mrs Speed is taking him to London several times a week while he takes part in intensive auditions.

She said: "He stops over when he has two days at Sir Cameron Mackintosh's flat. He gets a bath run every night, taken out to restaurants for dinner and a fried breakfast every morning, so he's loving it.

"His school has been fantastic and he gets tutored at the theatre.

"We're really proud of him."

Sir Cameron owns the theatre in Drury Lane.

Harley will be appearing in the show for two days each week from December 14.