Studying English and Theatre Studies at the Bedford campus, Sophie Giscard was born in the town before relocating to France aged seven with her family, with strong results at school gaining her entry into university a year early.

Growing up in a performing arts-loving family, Sophie moved back to Bedford to live with her sister with hopes of a career on stage – but the then 17-year-old first had to overcome the culture shock.

"I struggled in my first year at the University of Bedfordshire because even though I have a lot of family that are English and I’ve been on holiday here many times, the way of life compared to France is very different,” said Sophie, who’s due to enter her final year at Bedfordshire in October.

“It was also tough being away from my mum and younger sister at first but I’m glad I stuck at my English and Theatre Studies course, because I’ve come on leaps and bounds, and the experience I’ve gained has led to this amazing opportunity of performing in The Wiz.”

An adaptation of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the Stage Experience production of The Wiz enables up to 130 local young performers aged 10-21 years to produce a full-scale musical theatre production within two weeks, led by a team of industry professionals.

Coming through a successful audition, Sophie will fill three senior dancing roles in the musical.

She added: “At University I have gained lots of experience in drama performances, which has also involved dance, but The Wiz will be my first musical – and I can’t wait to start rehearsals.

“To perform in a big event at a Theatre where I have watched countless performances starring famous people, will be quite something. I’ve longed to be on the Milton Keynes Theatre stage.”

Being the production’s main partner, the University is also sponsoring four local performers in The Wiz and has offered internship positions to two students.

Media Performance student Leah Baker will fill the role of Assistant Stage Manager, while first-year Theatre and Professional Practice student Xanthia Ncube has been handed the responsibility of serving as a Wardrobe Assistant.

Tickets for The Wiz, which will be performed on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 August, can be purchased at www.atgtickets.com