Rebecca Mills in rehearsals

A Lichfield schoolgirl has undergone some unusual preparation to take one of the main roles in a new community musical in the city.

Once Upon a Mattress will be staged at the Lichfield Garrick from July 30 to August 4.

Among the stars will be Rebecca Mills, who takes the role of Princess Winnifred in the show, which is a musical based on Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale The Princess and the Pea.

Rebecca Mills in rehearsals
Rebecca Mills in rehearsals

But as well as rehearsing for the show, the St Francis of Assisi student has been building her confidence by taking part in a week-long trip to help others reach the the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a key pilgrimage site in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains.

“We had the opportunity to take pilgrims out to the torchlight procession,” Rebecca said. “This was a beautiful and moving experience in which we heard the rosary spoken in the different languages of the people staying in Lourdes that week.

“It was an absolute inspiration and we loved getting to know the pilgrims and after speaking to one of them, I found out that she also lived in Lichfield.

“Going and helping the pilgrims at Lourdes has definitely made me more confident in myself, my performing and my faith. I took part in last year’s community musical The Dreaming and absolutely loved it.

“It was a brilliant experience that furthered my passion for performing. This year is my last opportunity to join in with the show before focusing on my studies, I’m really glad to be part of something so special.”

Rebecca will appear along a cast of 50 performers foe the show.

Tickets start at £13.50 and can be booked by calling 01543 412121 or visiting www.lichfieldgarrick.com.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.