After three weeks of searching over two counties, the organisers of Grayshott Concert's open-air opera 'Madama Butterfly' on 12th July, announced that they have found their young star - right under their noses.

The young performer, selected after a brief audition from a short list of almost a dozen applicants, is 9 year old Callum Drain, a pupil at Grayshott Primary School. "I'm pleased but very surprised to be chosen" he said. "It's quite a challenge but I'm sure I can do it. I'll have a go anyway!" he added.

The famous opera, to be performed by national touring opera company Opera Box at Grayshott Primary School fields, calls for a child to play the part of 'Sorrow', the son of Madama Butterfly and US Navy Lieutenant Pinkerton. The pivotal role of the 3-year-old boy is usually performed by a boy or girl aged 6 - 8 years.

Organiser Vivien Harrison put out a plea throughout Surrey and Hampshire through the press and on radio for a child to come forward. "It was a bit slow at first but once the telephone calls started coming in I knew we would find just the right young performer at audition." she said. "All the children were excellent and it was very difficult to choose between them. So we've decided to appoint local girl, Shoshanah Sievers as our understudy - just in case. It's a pity that we couldn't use all the children, but sadly the opera only needs one."

Callum, who loves playing golf and enjoys drama, reading and computers, is not required to sing or to speak but must act the part of 'Sorrow' on stage for up to 20 minutes and will be guided throughout by leading ladies Nancy Yuen (Madama Butterfly) and Jeanette Ager (Suzuki) following afternoon rehearsals.

Headteacher, Jon Hills, commented: "We're delighted that Grayshott Primary School is providing not just the venue but the child-star too."

A few tickets at £25 are still available on 01428 606666; in person at Blaze House Art Grayshott; or on-line at www.grayshottconcerts.co.uk