HIGH kicks and big egos may be all in a day's work at Fame's New York school of performing arts, but two local cast members are much more down to earth.

Julie Atherton, who plays budding actress Serena Katz, grew up in Fulwood, Preston, and is looking forward to family and friends seeing the show. The 24-year-old said: "It's a hell of a struggle going to drama school but I'm really glad I went. It's not so far-fetched as Fame though -- people are not dancing on the tables!"

Colleague Tim Harwood also has friends and family coming to see him in his home town. The 31-year-old attended St George's High School, Blackpool, before joining Blackpool Youth Theatre and St Kentigern's Players. After dance coaching at Langley's he studied in London. "It's not for everyone but I followed my dream and now I'm living it," he smiled.

Blackpool and The Fylde College performing arts graduate Ben Heathcote also stars. Fame, The Musical is at Blackpool Opera House nightly until Saturday (June 15).