A TALENTED actor who is taking centre stage in this year's Beacon panto says he's thrilled to be performing at his local theatre for the first time. 

Sam Willison, 28, is playing the role of the beast in Beauty and the Beast which starts its run on December 9. 

Sam has been working as a professional actor for seven years and is also a member of the front of house team at the Beacon. 

Greenock Telegraph:
Taking on the mightily monstrous role in a theatre that's close to home and heart means that Sam will be at home for Christmas for the first time in two years. 

Sam added: "Being home for Christmas will be amazing and being at the Beacon will make it even more special. 

"It will be the first time that my friends and family can come and support me in a festive production.

"It's an amazing part to play and I can't wait to show people what I can do."

When Sam found out Beauty and the Beast was being staged at his local theatre, he was determined to join the cast. 

He recorded himself singing Who I'd Be from Shrek the Musical, and a couple of scenes from Beauty and the Beast, and soon afterwards was in a room meeting all the performers. 

Greenock Telegraph:
Sam started going to PACE Theatre Company in Paisley when he was just four and stayed there for 10 years. 

He studied at the Dance School of Scotland and then at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow. 

Sam has performed with Britain's Got Talent Star Susan Boyle, and played leading roles in Friends! The Musical Parody, and The Choir of Man.

The young actor says he feels lucky to be doing what he loves. 

Sam added: "I work hard but it doesn't feel like I'm working!

"We can't wait to bring this magical story to Inverclyde."

*Beauty and the Beast runs at the Beacon from December 9 to 31. 

To book tickets visit www.beaconartscentre.co.uk call the Beacon box office on 01475 723723.