One of the Boys

Outgoing Alistair McNeilly (9) from Brown Road in Seafar has won a hotly-contested role in Peter Pan, after making a big impression at recent auditions which saw crowds of young hopefuls flock in hope of securing a role.

The Ravenswood Primary pupil will play Tootles, one of the Lost Boys and with rehearsals now underway, Alistair is loving every minute.

And you won't hear any fears about stage fright from this young man.

"I'm not nervous.It's great being up there - I really enjoy it," said Alistair.

"Plus I get time off from school to go to rehearsals!"

Alistair won't take part in every show as laws surrounding child performers demand that he can only work a set number of hours - and this would explain why there are no fewer than three teams of Lost Boys.

He relishes meeting new pals who share his love of performing and it's clear that some of the professional cast have made a big impression too.

"I've seen the pirates," said Alistair.

"They are really tough and have big muscles," he added.

When asked if he had yet encountered arch-villain Captain Hook he replied. ''Not yet - but if the pirates are like that, I think Captain Hook is going to be pretty scary."

There are plenty who might feel the same when he peg-legs it into the limelight as a mammoth 16,500 tickets have been sold for the show!

The News wanted to know if Alistair fancied acting full time -and it appeared he had given the matter some thought.

"Yes. I really like it. I would actually like to be a wrestler - but I think there is a bit of acting involved in that too!'' he said.

Meanwhile mum Sharon and Dad Andrew are equally delighted to see their son doing so well. "We are very proud of him," said Andrew.

Peter Pan runs at Motherwell Civic Centre from Monday, November 22 until Tuesday, January 4 – call 01698 403120 for ticket information.

Tickets range from 10 to 12.50 with group discounts available.