Talented Ely teen lands Mozart role

A TALENTED young performer from King’s Ely made his first appearances on stage at the London Coliseum this month after being chosen to play the role of lead boy in Mozart’s The Magic Flute.

Year 9 pupil and ex-head chorister, Edward Birchinall, 13, was one of hundreds of hopefuls from across the UK who auditioned for the role.

Vanessa Scott, Edward’s singing teacher, said: “Edward has a very beautiful voice and sings with musicianship and artistry way above his years.

“He is a thoroughly nice young man and worked with tremendous focus during the summer holidays to prepare for these two challenges.

Edward has already enjoyed a busy year with Ely Cathedral Choir and passed his Grade 8 singing with a high distinction in the spring. He also sang the Queen at the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London in June and recently appeared in the West End production of Oliver alongside Rowan Atkinson.

Head of King’s Ely, Sue Freestone said: “Edward is a gifted individual with an innate sense of performance and well-rounded musicality. I have my ticket and I’m really looking forward to seeing and hearing Edward in such august company.”