TEACHERS at St Ninian's High School have paid tribute to local singing star Samantha Barks for inspiring Island students.

Yesterday (Tuesday) it was announced that West End star Samantha, who is originally from Laxey, had been cast as Eponine in the film version of Les Miserables.

Producer Cameron Mackintosh made the announcement during the curtain call of Oliver! at the Palace Theatre in Manchester where Samantha is currently playing Nancy.

Andy Fox, the head teacher at St Ninian's High School in Douglas where Samantha was a pupil, said: "All at St Ninian's are absolutely delighted at Sam's ongoing success and the great opportunity that she now has in Hollywood.

"She provides motivation to our students and shows the value of great talent coupled with hard work and determination.”

Samantha's former music teacher Claire Creer added: "Sam always stood out as being a special talent and was already wowing audiences when she was at school – especially when she performed as Rizzo in our production of Grease. She's an inspiration for all the budding talent in our school."  

Shooting for Les Miserables is scheduled to begin in March and the film has an official release date of December 7. 
 
Also see: Samantha Barks cast in Les Miserables movie