FIVE local youngsters chosen to appear in a lavish stage show were shown around the set yesterday.

The youngsters aged between four and 11, who successfully auditioned for the roles of the King's children, are appearing in The King and I at the Sunderland Empire Theatre, this week.

Starring Marti Webb, as Mrs Anna, and Ronobir Lahiri, as the King of Siam, the award-winning show by Rodgers and Hammerstein is visiting during a national tour.

It boasts sumptuous and ornate sets and 240 costumes, including the world's largest crinoline.

The lavish murals, mirrored tiles, beading, jewels, silks, 30ft bejewelled elephants, three miles of gold tiling and unique red stage, have been specially created for the tour.

Appearing in the show are youngsters Lisa Ly, from Gateshead; Ivy Chui, from Choppington, Northumberland; Shannen Duke, from Sunderland; Den Smith, from Colburn, North Yorkshire; and Kayleigh Leung, from North Tyneside.