Rustington starlet, six, steps into the limelight with opera professionals

Jacob Toms-Parr, who is also a pupil at the Glendale Theatre Arts School, in Worthing, has been selected to join the award-winning Grand Opera of Belarus in Puccini’s opera, which is being staged at the Pavilion Theatre on Saturday, February 23 (7.30pm), with a large, live orchestra.

A star-in-the-making, Jacob has already appeared in two amateur theatre productions.

More recently, he had a lead acting role in his primary school’s Christmas production.

Jacob, who lives in Rustington, will be playing the role of Butterfly’s young son, a part that is vital to the storyline.

Mandy Chapman, principal of Glendale Theatre Arts School, said: “I am thrilled that Jacob is performing in Madame Butterfly

“Jacob is a bright and talented little boy and I’m sure this is the first of many, many shows for him.

“He works so hard in his classes and has a determination and focus well ahead of his years.”

The young actor’s proud mother, Caroline Toms, said her son was very excited about his forthcoming theatre debut.

“I’m just really proud of him. It’s amazing the fact that he has got this opportunity.

“He was in his school’s Christmas production and they were really pleased with his acting. I just hope he laps it all up,” she said.

Caroline added that Jacob was feeling “very relaxed” about the whole experience and was taking it all in his stride.