Isobelle set to take the stage by storm

A SCHOOLGIRL outshone hundreds of children to land the lead role in the West End's hottest new musical.

Isobelle Molloy will star as the new Matilda at the Cambridge Theatre from April 15, which picked up the maximum ten nominations at the Olivier Awards in March.

Isobelle has been performing as pig-tailed schoolgirl, Amanda Thripp, since the show began in November 2011. But after it was announced two of the current Matildas were leaving, directors asked Isobelle if she would audition for the lead.

"I only had to do two auditions before they offered me the role and to be honest I was shocked," said Isobelle, 11, from Springfield.

"But I am not nervous about taking over as Matilda, I know the show, the stage and all the adults in the cast so it will be a lot easier for me."

The pupil at Bishops C of E, in Springfield, picked up her training at theatre school, Tomorrow's Talent, in Little Waltham, where she has been for two years.

And it was principal, Gavin Wilkinson, who encouraged Isobelle to audition in the West End.

Self-motivated, Isobelle, began dancing at three and knew straightaway she wanted to be an actress, but admitted to being shy when she started out.

She said: "At first I was nervous about going for auditions but you just get used to it. If you do not get accepted in a role you cannot give up."

Isobelle believes that her mum, Leanne Cornwell, who has taken her to auditions and rehearsals has been a key part of her success. Leanne, 38, said: "It has been life-changing as soon as she got the role.

"But Isobelle just loves it and, because she loves it so much, we are all behind her.

"To see that she is doing well is rewarding and all the going backwards and forwards is worth it and we are reaping the benefits."

Isobelle's proud teacher at Tomorrow's Talent, Gavin Wilkinson, said: "When she first came to us she was very quiet, so it is just amazing to see her develop in confidence. I really cannot emphasise how well she has done.

"This is huge role and it proves that you do not have to belong to a stage school to succeed in the industry."