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The proud parents of an Ulster schoolgirl vying for a leading role in Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest musical today urged the public to get behind her.
Niamh Perry (17), is one of 12 finalists hoping to win the role of Nancy in the BBC's new Saturday night talent show I'd Do Anything.
The lucky winner - chosen by public vote - will go on to play the coveted part in the forthcoming West End revival of the much-loved hit musical Oliver.
In total three contenders from Northern Ireland will take part in the first live sing-off on Saturday night - Niamh will be joined by Belfast woman Rachel Tucker, who is also in the running for Nancy, while 12-year-old Londonderry boy Gareth Barrow is one of a dozen youngsters hoping to win the role of Oliver.
Niamh's parents Liam and Zaron Perry said they were "euphoric" that their teenage daughter - an A Level student at Our Lady and St Patrick's College, Knock - had made it through to the final 12.
Liam said: "Niamh is very grounded about the whole thing, a lot more than her parents are.
"She's taking it all in her stride.
"She's studying Theatre Studies and Music at the moment and hopes to go to one of the Performing Arts schools in London.
"Niamh has done a bit of acting in the past, mainly with the McMaster Stage School in Bangor and Musical Theatre for Youth. Musicals are very much her thing and she has always been keen to play the role of Nancy in Oliver."
Niamh's mum Zaron said the schoolgirl was relishing every moment of the I'd Do Anything experience.
"It's a tremendous opportunity for her and Niamh is just enjoying it to the full. She keeps telling us she is having a wonderful time and is just really excited about the live show.
"Even if she doesn't go on to win, you couldn't pay for this level of training, the vocal coaching, the choreography.
"She's philosophical about it, but is also very determined to go all the way and play Nancy.
"Niamh is very confident that the Northern Irish public will vote for her, so hopefully she will get a lot of support from home."
