Sam's time to shine on BBC talent show

SHINING star . . . Royton actor Sam Glen auditions for BBC One show "Let it Shine", which is broadcast on Saturday

A YOUNG actor from Royton will be singing his heart out before a panel of well-known pop stars for a new reality TV talent contest.

Former Our Lady's RC School pupil Sam Glen is auditioning this Saturday for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity on "Let It Shine", a new UK-wide BBC talent search to find five contestants to join the cast of a brand new stage show.

They will play the role of a boyband in a new nationwide touring musical that features the music of Take That.

The show is hosted by Graham Norton and Mel Giedroyc and contestants will be judged by Gary Barlow, Dannii Minogue, and Martin Kemp.

Amber Riley, from the hit American musical drama Glee, will be a guest judge.

Sam, who started his training at Oldham Theatre Workshop at the age of eight, is no stranger to the limelight.

Last year he had a small role as an estate agent in Coronation Street.

He also played Curan in Shakespeare's King Lear at the Royal Exchange in Manchester, as well as having a lead role in World's End, a CBBC 2015 mystery drama.

Fantastic

Sam (23) said: "I just think it was a fantastic opportunity.

"Gary Barlow is a fantastic songwriter.

"My family and friends think it's fab.

"My mum didn't know I could sing until I applied for the show ­- she was shocked!

"Everybody thinks I'm just an actor.

"They're really happy and pleased for me.

"My mum went along with me to the audition. When Dannii Minogue spoke to her she really enjoyed it.

"As an actor it's extremely nerve-racking and overwhelming doing any auditions.

"I thought I was prepared for it because I've done auditions before. But it was an incredible experience and so scary, auditioning in front of a panel and live audience."

Watch Sam's audition on "Let It Shine" at 7pm on BBC One this Saturday.