The members of Waos Juniors may be familiar with treading the boards but since August they have been practising a whole new way of moving around the stage - rollerskating.

The young members of Workington Amateur Operatic Society have spent the past six months learning the skill ahead of their production of Starlight Express, which opens at the Carnegie Theatre on Wednesday.

Mark Stilwell, of Waos, says: "In August most of the cast were skating for the first time so it's been quite a challenge, especially for the taller cast members who have a long way to fall. It's taken a lot of hard work and determination from but their positive outlook has prepared them for this demanding production."

Traditionally performed on skates, the Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber production tells the story of toy trains that come to life and compete to be the fastest in the world.

Andrew White, who plays Rusty, says: "It's a brilliant show to be in and one of the most ambitious theatre productions so far. Playing Rusty is the most fun I have had in a show in a long time."

Andrew McMinn, who takes on the role of Greaseball, says: "Who could have thought that in such a short space of time, a cast of over 40 eight to 18-year-olds could learn to not only skate, but to also sing and dance on them? A challenging, but rewarding experience all round."

Amelia Crawford adds: "Starlight has definitely been a challenge, but I'm really enjoying playing the role of Pearl. I like that the show is really upbeat and can't wait to perform it."

The show runs at the Carnegie from Wednesday until next Saturday at 7.15pm. Tickets are £12, available at www.carnegietheatre.co.uk or on 01900 602122.