YOUNGSTERS will be hoping the audience cries "More!" during their 29 performance run of the musical Oliver!

The teenagers from Stockton Riverside College will often perform three productions a day at The Arc theatre in the town and began yesterday.

However, Jason Faulkner, head of creative industry at the college, said it will not be the same cast for every performance.

"We couldn't do that, " said Jason. "We wouldn't be allowed to even if we wanted to. We've got two full casts, which involve 17 children aged nine to 11, and it's been great for our 16 to 18-year-olds. A highlight for them was receiving a masterclass from one of our old boys, Stevie Hutchison, who has become an established West End performer. That was very useful for them."

The production is the classic Lionel Bart musical with all the well-loved songs and Mr Faulkner said ticket sales are going very well, at £9 and £7.

For details, call The Arc on 01642-525199 or go to arconline.co.uk