A RISING theatrical star has described making his West End stage debut and working with a Hollywood Legend as a “dream come true.”

Natham Elwick, from Newton Aycliffe, was among the cast of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, which opened at the Garrick Theatre in London last week.

The 23-year-old, who attended Woodham Academy, said: “Growing up with all the old Universal Monsters and Mel Brooks films, it’s now amazing to be in a show working with Mel himself. It’s a show where I get to tap in top hat and tails and also be a monster occasionally. To work with Susan Stroman and Mel Brooks is a dream come true. This is a complete dream job and I couldn’t be luckier”

Staff at Woodham Academy all thrilled for Mr Elwick, who regularly starred in the school’s productions.

Assistant Headteacher and music teacher Tina Taylor, said: “It’s wonderful to see a student arrive in school with a clear ambition and go on to realise his dream. It was obvious that Nathan had lots of talent, but he also had dedication and has done everything he possibly could to make this happen.”