Young actress, 14, stars in global TV series

Thalia is starring in Disney+ TV mini series Washington Black

A budding young actress from Surrey is appearing in a Disney+ mini series.

Thalia was chosen to play a key supporting role in Washington Black, which is based on a book by Canadian author Esi Edugyan about a boy's escape from slavery in Barbados.

Fourteen-year-old Thalia was cast as Tanna, the younger version of British actress Iola Evans' character.

"Being part of Washington Black has been unforgettable. I've learned so much from the amazing cast and crew, I'm so excited for everyone to see the show," Thalia said.

The pupil said the filming took place three years ago and she travelled to Canada and Mexico to film her scenes.

Thalia's mother, Harriet, said Showdown Theatre Arts, where Thalia honed her acting skills for several years, told the family the casting director of the TV series was searching for an actress to play young Tanna.

Thalia decided to try out for the role and created a tape for the audition.

"Once the audition was submitted we tried not to think about it," Harriet said.

"I was at my friend's place when I got the call and they told me I got the role. I squealed off the top of my lungs in excitement!" Thalia added.

Harriet said Thalia was selected out of 50 shortlisted candidates.

A spokesperson for Showdown Theatre Arts said: "Thalia has always shown passion, commitment, and a remarkable talent for storytelling.

"We're so proud to see her talent recognised on this scale, it's just the beginning for her."

Washington Black, which is set to launch on the streaming service on Wednesday, also stars Golden Globe award winner Sterling K Brown, Tom Ellis and Rupert Graves.