A WATFORD teenager has been selected out of 80 boys to star in the National Youth Ballet 2001 production of Toad, a spin-off from Wind in the Willows.

Richard Read, 15, from Watford Grammar School in Rickmansworth Road, will be dancing the role of Weasel on Friday, October 26, and Saturday, October 27, at The Ashcroft Theatre in Croydon. And on Tuesday, October 30, in the London Gala Performance at Sadler's Well.

At a time when ballet is just as popular and equally competitive for boys, as well as girls, Richard said he was 'over the moon' at landing the role. He said he was fairly modest about his talent, and most of his friends and teachers at school were unaware of his extra-curricular activities.

He said: "At school I concentrate on getting my work done and, after school, I dance. I could not believe it when I got the role of Weasel.

"I play one weasel in a group. We dance around, cause lots of trouble and mischief in Toad Hall. The role was quite macho and I got to dance really jerky and sinister ballet movements."

Richard, who trained at Stage Rage Theatre in Watford, and the Central School of Ballet, said he was following in this family's footsteps, who were all in the entertainment industry.

While his older brother Nick, 17, and Daniel 24, chose careers in acting - after their father. Richard chose ballet after his mother.

His mother, Mrs April Read, said: "I did not force my son into Ballet, it was his choice. I think it is brilliant that he got the role in Toad, and think it has done wonders to his confidence.

"Richard's has been studying classical ballet, although he can also dance modern, and jazz and a little bit of tap. It is up to him where her takes his career, but I will always be here to offer him advice and support."

October 22, 2001 19:39

Raj Mattu