WEST End performer Andrew Langtree took on a starring role of a different kind when he returned to his old school, De La Salle, to present prizes and GCSE certificates to pupils and last year's leavers.

And it was a sentimental journey back for the 22-year-old who is currently playing to packed houses in the hit musical about 70s supergroup ABBA, 'Mamma Mia,'

Andrew, now based in London, said: "It was great to come back to my old school although people will probably remember me as Andrew Reid as I had to change my stage name to comply with Equity rules.

"I always wanted to work in the world of entertainment and can still clearly remember coming off stage at the Theatre Royal after playing a scarecrow in 'The Wizard of Oz', hot and full of straw, but thinking this is the only thing I want to do."

A string of school productions enhanced this feeling as Andrew played everything from Knuckles in 'Bugsy Malone' to Fagin in 'Oliver', as well as being a member of the Merseyside Youth Playhouse where he played John O' Brian in 'Fifteen Streets' and Riff in 'West Side Story.' After leaving De La Salle, Andrew did a performing arts diploma at St Helens College before moving to the Paul McCartney-inspired Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts (LIPA).

During his three years at LIPA, Andrew performed at Buckingham Palace and also at Linda McCartney's memorial service in London. And after gaining his degree, he moved to the bright lights of the capital seeking work.

He said: "I auditioned for three months before getting a lead role in 'Fame' at The Prince of Wales Theatre and while doing this show I also auditioned for 'Mamma Mia.' I was absolutely over the moon when I landed the part, it's great career move, as well as being lots of fun.

"My parents, Irene and Alan Reid, as well as the rest of my family, are really proud of me and now I would like to try a straight play or television work."

During the presentation Andrew talked about the choices facing students and the importance of finding something that you are good at and following it through by remaining focused in the face of rejection, disappointment and setbacks.

Mrs Ann Brian, head of drama at De La Salle, said: "I am really pleased and proud that Andrew is gaining recognition. He has achieved so much in such a short time, but I always believed in him and realised he had outstanding talent at an early age. I am sure that he will go on to have a rich and varied career.

"It is also great that young people like Andrew, who are so busy, find the time to come back and give their time to other youngsters."

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