THREE young dancers have taken the first dance steps on the road to success, as they have been chosen to dance with the English Youth Ballet.

Chloe Blackmur from Sampford Courtenay, aged 16, Abigail Dellar from Hatherleigh, 13, and Millie Parker, 9, from Okehampton, (pictured)?have all landed roles in a professional production of Giselle at the Princess Theatre in Torquay. The three won their roles at a highly competitive audition at the theatre in February, and will feature in three performances of the production on May 25 and May 26.

Chloe clinched the role of the Wili Spirit in the Forest, Abigail was chosen as the Lady of the Hunt, and Millie was cast as a villager.

The cast will dance alongside English Youth Ballet's international principal artists in the professional production. They are currently experiencing the life of a professional ballet dancer, working at Westlands School in Torquay every weekend in an intensive rehearsal process.

Company manager Ben Garner said: 'Working with English Youth Ballet will most probably be the highlight of these talented young dancers' careers, to date. 

'The audiences watching English Youth Ballet are in for a unique and exciting experience too. They will be seeing both top international principal artists and the best up-and-coming young talent from their region — sharing the stage.'

The production tells the story of army officer Albert, and how he woos the weak-hearted Giselle, deceiving her into believing he is a common footman.

When she discovers the truth and that he is engaged to be married, she tragically dies and is transformed into a Wili Spirit, who will aim to get her revenge.

The performances are at the theatre on Friday May 25 at 7.30pm, and Saturday May 26 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. For tickets call 0844 871 3023 or visit http://www.atgtickets.com/torquay">www.atgtickets.com/torquay