In St Bonaventure’s we have many talented students but one Year 10 dancer, Khalif Edwards, will soon be busy rehearsing for ‘Motown – The Musical’ in readiness for its move to The Hackney Empire.

Currently enjoying a year long run at The Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End, the popular musical features a section on The Jackson 5 and the part Motown played in launching their successful, long career.

Khalif, who is 14 and in 10 Heath, has secured the role as the understudy of Tito Jackson.

Khalif  from Leyton will learn three numbers, ‘ABC’, ‘Rockin’ Robin’ and ‘I Want You Back’ and will have to know his role inside out exactly as the main actor will.  He originally went to audition for a part in ‘The Lion King’ but was very happy when he got the part in ‘Motown’ as he loves the music from that era.

He went on to explain: “My dance school, X7even Academy,  have always been very supportive and when the opportunity arose for me to audition I felt very confident and gave it my best shot. I know it might seem a long way off but these huge productions need to forward plan months in advance. I start rehearsals in February in readiness for the move from the West End to the East End. The Hackney Empire is a magnificent venue and I will feel proud to perform there so close to home.”

Khalif hopes to pursue a career in the theatre and dance after his GCSEs.