A SIX-year-old who “loves performing” will take centre stage at her local theatre in an upcoming performance.

Alexandria Jack-Evans, from Sherfield-on-Loddon and who attends Theatre 4 Kids, will star in Ellen Kent’s award-winning production of Madama Butterfly.

The world-famous production will come to the Anvil tonight (May 3) and will be the six-year-old’s first professional performance.

Alexandria will appear opposite Maria Hee Jung Kim from the National Opera, Seoul, South Korea, who plays the tragic yet iconic Cio-Cio San.

Producer Ellen wanted to make the performance a community affair by inviting youngsters from a local stage school.

Theatre 4 Kids was invited to supply the child to play Sorrow and other children to take part and experience the joy of treading the boards in the production of Giacomo Puccini’s masterpiece.

In preparing for the role, Alexandria has been rehearsing with her drama school before joining the cast and full orchestra in preparation for tonight’s performance.

Alexandria’s mother Amanda said: “Alexandria is really excited, this is her first time on stage with a professional company and she is very much looking forward to taking part.

“She enjoys theatre studies, running, singing and swimming. Of course she loves anything to do with performing. She’s a lovely outgoing girl.”

The story of Madama Butterfly is Puccini’s popular tale on which the hit West End musical Miss Saigon is based.

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the story of a beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love with an American naval lieutenant , with dramatic results.

Kent said: “My operas have to be emotional and beautiful.”

Highlights of the show include melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

The production will be starting at 7.30pm.

For more information and tickets, go to anvilarts.org.uk.