HE’S been a soap star, performed in the West End, toured with Sir Elton John, and now Richard Fleeshman is taking on an iconic Patrick Swayze role — and he’s still only 21.

The former Coronation Street heartthrob will play Sam Wheat in the stage adaptation of 1990 Hollywood blockbuster Ghost which sees its world premiere in Manchester.

Richard revealed he will be seen on stage appearing to walk through walls and disappear into thin air.

With special effects from Harry Potter illusionist Paul Kieve, Richard has been sworn to secrecy about how the stage magic works.

“It’s an honour to play this part and be involved in this project,” said Richard, currently in his second week of rehearsals.

“Some of the stuff we’ve worked on so far is amazing. The illusions are fantastic and I think I’m just as excited about them as the audience will be.

“Some things have never been attempted before on stage. All the famous illusions that are in the film are there,” said Richard, who beat off hundreds of hopefuls to gain the prestigious Swayze part.

“It’s quite physically demanding, so it’s been lots of hot baths and sore limbs,” he laughed.

The youngster from Stockport will star opposite Broadway actress Caissie Levy in the role of Sam’s girlfriend Molly - played by Demi Moore in the original film.

The story follows Sam who, after being murdered by a mugger, is a ghost trapped between this world and the next who tries to communicate with Molly through a phoney psychic.

The hit film has been adapted for the stage by Bruce Joel Rubin who won an Oscar for his original screenplay and has a handson role during rehearsals.

“He’s always in the room,” said Richard. “It’s pressure, but I’d rather have him there early on than him see it later and find we are doing it totally wrong.

“The first day was terrifying for everyone but now we all pool ideas.”

The show receives its world premiere at Manchester Opera House on March 28 ahead of a West End run.

Among those on the guest list for the gala opening night will be Richard’s proud parents and fellow actors Sue Jenkins and David Fleeshman.

The show features a score made up of 22 new songs by Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics) and Glen Ballard (writer of Michael Jackson’s Man In The Mirror.) And fans of the original movie will be pleased to hear that the classic Unchained Melody will also be included.

Richard first made his name as Craig Harris in Coronation Street aged just 12. In the four years since his departure he has launched himself as a solo singer, recorded an album and supported Sir Elton John on several of his summer stadium tours.

Most recently he made his West End debut appearing alongside Sheridan Smith in Legally Blonde.

But Richard admits this role is his biggest challenge so far.

“The pressure is really on. Ghost is one of those films that everyone has seen. And because it’s so well loved it brings so much pressure,” Richard said.

“Swayze was phenomenal, to try and copy that would be a mistake. So we want to try to go our own way with it. Even massive fans of the film should have a few surprises.

“It isn’t a girly romantic play, like the film. It’s quite dark in parts so it’s a show for everyone.

"The soundtrack has something for all tastes too. I think it’s going to be quite an epic experience.”

* Ghost: The Musical is at Manchester’s Opera House from March 28 to May 14. Tickets cost £17.50 to £43.50.