Glasgow girls bag role in leading stage production of Gangsta Granny

Two young drama students from the King’s and Theatre Royal have secured roles in Birmingham Stage’s live adaptation of hit book Gangsta Granny by David Walliams.

Kiera Bell of Prestwick and Anna Cowen of Glasgow were both offered dance positions in the show’s world premiere after participating in Stage Experience: The Wizard of Oz which was produced by the Theatre Royal’s Creative Learning department in July this year.

Kiera played the Lion while Anna portrayed the Wicked Witch of the West.

The 16-year-olds will now be performing in Gangsta Granny until Sunday 11 September at the King’s, alternating matinee and evening shows between them.

The youngsters became involved in Gangsta Granny after the show’s production company wanted to include members of the theatre’s community while in Glasgow.

Kiera and Anna were selected due to their outstanding ability during Stage Experience and in-house drama classes.

Alison Cowan, Creative Learning Manager at King’s and Theatre Royal, said it was fantastic opportunity for the girls.

She added: “It’s great to have Kiera and Anna dancing in Gangsta Granny this week.

“They, along with their fellow company members, were amazing in the Wizard of Oz this summer and it just shows what kind of opportunities our drama programmes can lead to.

“I wish them both the best of luck for the show this week.”

Kiera said: “I’m really excited to be on stage at the King’s and perform alongside professional actors, although I am nervous about performing in front of such a big audience.”

Anna said: “It was such an honour to be asked to perform in this show, it’s so funny and really popular so it’s great experience and exposure to the world of theatre.”

Gangsta Granny is a must for all families as the show can be enjoyed by everyone from 5 to 105! It’s laugh out loud funny with brilliant comic scenes yet with some very moving and truthful things to say about family relationships.

For tickets and information about Gangsta Granny visit the King's Theatre website.