A talented group of young actors are in with a chance of performing in London.

The Fisher Youth Theatre Group in Bungay is entering the National Theatre’s New Connections Festival for youth theatre.

The curtain went up this week on their performance of The Musicians by Patrick Marber, about a school orchestra which travels to Moscow to perform but has their instruments impounded at the airport.

After their run at the Fisher Theatre, which ends tonight, they will perform at the Norwich Playhouse in April where they will be judged by National Theatre Directors.

The judges will then pick 12 groups from the 500 entering the festival to perform at the National Theatre in London.

Chairman of the Youth Theatre Group Laila France said: “It’s the first time our group has taken part in the festival and they’ll be judged on things like the way everyone works together, technical ability and how they hold an audience.”

Knowing they have to make an impression, the cast has been pulling out all the stops to make their performance perfect, including taking tips from professional musicians on how to pretend to play an instrument, and even learning Russian.

Brad Bush, 17, had some extra coaching. “A few weeks ago some very lovely Russians came over to help,” he said. “There are some bits in the play where we have to speak Russian and they helped us script bit by bit how it should sound.

“The first time we did it they giggled but considering we didn’t know any Russian they said we’re now as authentic as we could get.”

And although competition is tough, Mrs France has every faith in the performers.

“I think this group really are very talented,” she said. “And they’ve got a real chance.”

To buy tickets for tonight’s 7.30pm performance of The Musicians call the box office on 01986 897130.