Sam Barks lands 'dream' role as Nancy in Oliver!
- Published
Barks missed out on the role of Nancy in 2008
Musical star Sam Barks has landed the role she has "always wanted", three years after rising to fame on the BBC One show I'd Do Anything.
The 21-year-old from the Isle of Man has been unveiled as the leading lady Nancy for the next UK Tour of Oliver!
Barks will perform alongside Neil Morrissey and Brian Conley, who will both play the role of Fagin at different venues.
The tour starts at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on 20 December.
Barks, from Laxey, finished third on I'd Do Anything in 2008, losing out on the role of Nancy to Jodie Prenger from Blackpool.
'Lifetime dream'
The 21-year-old said: "I am absolutely over the moon. It's the most overwhelming and incredible feeling.
"The disappointment of not winning the show made me feel like it was never going to happen; it's so exciting to now be able to live out a lifetime dream."
During her time on the talent show, the Isle of Man was renamed the "Isle of Sam" as a sign of support by the government.
The full cast of the national tour of Sir Cameron Mackintosh's production of Lionel Bart's smash hit musical Oliver! was announced earlier.
Barks added: "To work with my idols is amazing. Finally I am so excited to play the role I worked so hard to get.
"I've got a bit of a head start as I already know all the songs.
"I can't wait to wear the famous Nancy dress."