He’s become somewhat of a Starlight Express legend – and he’s strapping on his skates for Southampton.

Mykal Rand, pictured, returns to the cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s train sensation as it explodes back onto The Mayflower stage next week.

He reprises his role as enigmatic Electra, the ‘engine of the future’ who challenges the old order of steam and diesel locomotives.

Since making his first appearance in the show 25 years ago, Mykal has performed in Japan, Germany and New Zealand as well as in the West End and around the UK.

“It’s so different to anything else around, it’s such a spectacle and it appeals to people across the board,” he told Lorelei Reddin.

“Every time it comes around, I get my skates on!”

Despite a teenage Mykal being overawed by the skills on show as he first hit the stage back in 1987, he was a bit of a sensation as a skater himself.

“I started skating aged four. I was trained as a boy by a world champion, so skating has always been in me. It’s also been a part of my family as my cousin was a junior British champion.

“Singing and dancing came later and it seemed like Starlight Express was the perfect show for me.”

Mykal is also associate director/ choreographer and resident director for the tour, of Starlight Express, one of the best loved musicals ever.

This futuristic tale of love and hope promises to take you on the ride of a lifetime. Expect two hours of speed and spectacle, with dazzling sets and costumes, extraordinary choreography and an electrifying soundtrack.

u Starlight Express runs from Wednesday until Saturday December 8.