AS Southampton-born West End star Earl Carpenter prepares to make his debut on Broadway as Javert in Les Miserables, Mayflower Theatre has announced his appointment as patron of its Musical Youth Theatre.

Michael Ockwell, Mayflower Theatre chief executive said: “We are thrilled that Earl has agreed to become patron of our Musical Youth Theatre. He is one of the biggest most experienced performers who started out his career in local amateur productions in Bournemouth and Southampton, and is the perfect inspiration for all the young people who are members of the youth theatre.

“It would be amazing to think that some of these young people will be as successful in their careers as Earl and return one day to lead a company in a show on Mayflower Theatre’s stage.

This news comes as rehearsals begin for the summer youth production Five of The Best which celebrates 50 years of musicals – and 50 years of Southampton’s city status.

The production is one of many exciting events happening at the 16-day Art at the Heart festival which gets under way on Saturday at the Nuffield playing ground, Guildhall Square.

Five of the Best will be performed at the O2 Guildhall on Thursday, August 7 at 7.30pm and Friday, August 8 at 4pm and 7.30pm. On Saturday, August 9 it will then move to the Nuffield Playing Field at 3.30pm.

  • To book tickets call the Mayflower Theatre box office on 023 8071 1811or visit mayflower.org.uk.