THE wide-ranging talents of local children are the centrepiece of a new show from Malvern entertainer Richard Swerrun at Malvern Theatres later this month.

Showbusiness . . . A Little Bit More! is a follow up to Richard's last show, A Little Bit of Showbusiness, and features around 35 youngsters, whose talents include singing, acting and dancing, alongside professional actors and musicians.

"It's a totally new show," enthused Richard.

"The kids are quite exceptional this year. It's quite a varied programme but we're having a great time. It's such a mish-mash of different things."

The idea behind the show is to make children more aware of the hard work and dedication needed by performers to succeed in their chosen profession.

In Richard's production, the children, aged ten to 17, will perform alongside Royce Mills (Royal National Theatre, BBC TV's Spooks) and Andrew Lynford (EastEnders), as well as musicians directed by West End veteran Chris Hatt.

"For many years I've wanted to show children what it's like in theatre," said Richard.

"A lot of people have the 'tonight Matthew, I'm going to be...' syndrome. A puff of dry ice and you're a star. It's not like that, it's a lot of hard work."

The show is split into two themed parts, The Bar and The Chair, with each act relating somehow to the theme. For example, The Bar features acts including a ballet bar, a public bar and a judge at the bar.

Richard said the audience was in for a treat.

"Sit down and hold on to your hats, because you don't now where it's going!" he said.

Showbusines . . . A Little Bit More! is at Malvern Theatres on Sunday, November 24 at 7.30pm.

Tickets start at £7, available from the box office on 01684 892277.