A performer from Hampshire will star in the multi-award-winning musical Hamilton as it comes to Southampton next month.
Eva Phillips, who grew up in Swanmore, will be part of the first-ever UK and Ireland tour of the hit show, playing at Mayflower Theatre from March 18 to April 26.
Phillips, who trained at The Urdang Academy in London, has previously performed in Dirty Dancing, Thriller Live and at The Brit Awards with Little Mix.
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"Before the show even ended, I made a promise to myself that I’d be in it one day.
"The audition process consisted of six singing/dancing rounds, followed by a week-long boot camp.
"After a long wait, I got the news in August last year and was over the moon."
Phillips will be playing "W1", a female-presenting member of the ensemble.
She said: "As the ensemble in Hamilton, we portray all sorts throughout the show – one moment we’re the jury in the first American murder trial, the next we’re a physical expression of Aaron Burr’s darkest desires, we’re constantly evolving and hardly leave the stage.
"The choreography is incredibly detailed, and every single movement has a meaning. Although it is definitely a physically demanding show, being able to tap into that intention rather than moving for movements’ sake is really creatively fulfilling.
"All the cast are so talented, it's a really special production to be a part of."
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The performer is looking forward to returning to Southampton for the show.
She said: "It means so much to be performing so close to home, and in what I remember as being THE theatre growing up.
"Despite touring a couple of times, I’ve not performed at Mayflower Theatre before, and even though my friends and family show me support wherever I’m on stage, they are very happy they don’t have to travel too far this time."
She added: "I have really fond memories of visiting Mayflower Theatre when I was younger.
"One of my earliest memories is watching Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with my family.
"I think it was one of the first musicals I’d seen, and I had so much fun.
"I don’t know if it was the flying car or the chocolate ice cream in the interval, but I was sold."
The performer hopes to spend some time at home during the show's run.
She said: "I’m looking forward to spending time back home.
"The show keeps us pretty busy, but I’m hoping to get out on the Hamble on my paddleboard if the weather allows it."
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