AMERICAN film star Gene Wilder is to make his stage debut in Britain alongside a rising star from Accrington.

Wilder, star of such classic comedies as The Producers and Blazing Saddles, is to play American comic Sid Caesar in the Neil Simon comedy 'Laughter On The 23rd Floor.' And playing a prominent role in the production will be former Moorhead School and Accrington and Rossendale College student Joe Alessi.

Joe, 31, is now based in London, but his proud mum and dad Angela and Giuseppe, still live in Accrington where Giuseppe has been a tailor for 30 years.

Angela said: "Joe starts to rehearse on Monday and the play will then go on tour before going to the West End. He is over the moon about it and we are very proud of him. It is a big part."

So far, Joe has a string of television appearances to his credit, including roles in The Bill, Minder, The Chief and 99-1.

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