A talented young performer from Congleton, is preparing to make his debut as a professional actor after landing the lead role in a brand new stage play called 'Wild Wing Doves (Sign Your Name)'.

The play opens at London's Above the Stag Theatre on 7th July, the same week Sam Craig is set to graduate from Liverpool Theatre School.

The promising actor, who is on track to graduate with a Trinity diploma in acting, was just nine years old when he first discovered his passion for drama.

He went on to win a scholarship through The Stage newspaper to secure a place at Liverpool Theatre School, which provides specialist training in acting, musical theatre and dance.

His first professional role will see him play the part of Aidyn in the new stage play by Ashley Byam, which explores the sacrifices people make for the perfect relationship.

He is set to star alongside accomplished actor, Ishmail Aaron, who plays his boyfriend Kairo, as the pair discover that one night can change everything and first love doesn't always work out as expected.

Speaking about his success in securing the role, Sam said: "I feel extremely lucky to have landed such an incredible part before I've even graduated.

"Training at Liverpool Theatre School has helped me immensely and I felt so well prepared during the auditions as I've had amazing support from my tutors who have really encouraged me to push my own boundaries.

"I've loved every minute of training at Liverpool Theatre School and I'm so excited about having the opportunity to put into practise everything I've learned over the last three years.

"The play tackles the issue of domestic abuse in LGBTQ relationships so it's a great first role to get stuck into. I can't wait to get out there and do what I love doing best."

Liverpool Theatre School Principal, Maxine Ellis, said: "Sam is incredibly talented and we're all extremely proud of his achievement in securing a professional acting role so soon after completing his training, particularly given the recent challenges in the industry.

"We wish him all the success in the world with this role and with his future career as an actor.

"He's always worked exceptionally hard at Liverpool Theatre School and I'm sure he will be one to watch as he takes the leap into his professional acting career."

Liverpool Theatre School's elite training programmes in dance, musical theatre and acting are designed to give young people the skills they need to pursue professional careers in the performing arts industry.

The specialist stage school, which is rated outstanding in all areas by Ofsted, is the only place in the country to be validated by Trinity College London across all three disciplines of dance, musical theatre and acting.

Liverpool Theatre School also provides a number of fully funded places and bursaries including the DaDAs (Dance and Drama Awards) and the Andrew Lloyd Webber scholarship, which enable talented students, lacking in financial support, to access professional training opportunities.