CHILDHOOD television favourites are being brought to life by two women who have moved in to Sesame Street.

Alexandra Wheatley, of New Waltham, and Natasha Volley, of Grimsby, have both secured roles in the British tour of the internationally acclaimed musical, Elmo Makes Music.

Following a series of gruelling auditions at London's Pineapple Studios, the pair impressed the American creators of Sesame Street so much so that Alexandra was given the character of Zoe – a ballerina and Elmo's best friend – while Natasha was given Grundgetta, Oscar the Grouch's girlfriend.

And, after proving a hit in the Middle East, the pair are now going to be bringing the characters a bit closer to home, taking to the stage at the Embassy Theatre, Skegness, tomorrow before heading off to London in the build-up to the Olympics.

Natasha, 27, is also an understudy for some of the taller characters such as Bert and Big Bird, ready to take on the roles if the current actors become ill and are unable to perform. She is delighted to be part of the cast as she can remember watching the show on TV as a child.

Natasha said: "I used to watch Sesame Street with my grandad all the time, so it is a dream to be part of all this.

"My grandad's favourite characters were Ernie and Bert and I have already had the opportunity in the Middle East to perform as Bert.

"I have always loved being on stage and I have been a member of many dance schools across North East Lincolnshire which, I believe, have all helped me to be doing this now.

"The feeling of excitement when I perform just grows with every show I do."

Natasha is also dance captain for the Elmo Makes Music production, keeping cast members in check and dance routines tight.

She said: "I have been given a lot of responsibility, which tells me I must be doing things right.

"I am extremely excited to be heading to the London Palladium in March as part of the Olympics' pre-celebrations. This is a dream come true for both of us."

Alexandra, 27, a former pupil of the Pat Yarborough Theatre Dance School, said: "The production appeals to all age groups and we have already received some fantastic responses from it.

"I have always wanted to travel, but to do what I love at the same time is perfect.

"My character Zoe is very girlie and happy, much like me in reality, which makes it easier to relate to her.

"The tour of Elmo Makes Music is scheduled to run up until October, so we just hope each show is as successful as the last.

"I want to remain in a profession where I can use my dancing skills for the future, but for now we are both just thoroughly enjoying the tour."

Skegness date

Elmo Makes Music will be live at the Embassy Theatre, Skegness, tomorrow from 2pm. Tickets cost £13 adults, £11 children and family tickets are also available.

To book, call the box office on 0845 6740505.