Grayshott Primary School pupil Callum Drain (9) was selected to play the part of Sorrow in the show, which takes place on Saturday, July 12 at the school field.

He beat competition from children across Surrey and Hampshire to win his place among the professional cast.

Callum said: “I’m pleased but very surprised to be chosen.

“It’s quite a challenge but I’m sure I can do it.

“I’ll have a go anyway!”

Callum will join national touring opera company Opera Box on stage for the performance.

He is not required to sing or to speak but must act the part for up to 20 minutes and will be guided throughout by leading ladies Nancy Yuen, who plays Madama Butterfly, and Jeanette Ager, who plays Suzuki, after afternoon rehearsals.

Organiser Vivien Harrison said it took three weeks for the search for the star to be completed.

She said: “It was a bit slow at first but once the telephone calls started coming in I knew we would find just the right young performer at audition.

“All the children were excellent and it was very difficult to choose between them.

“So we've decided to appoint local girl, Shoshanah Sievers as our understudy – just in case.

“It’s a pity that we couldn’t use all the children, but sadly the opera only needs one.”

Callum, who loves playing golf and enjoys drama, reading and computers, has made his head teacher a proud man.

Grayshott Primary School’s head teacher, Jon Hills, said: “We’re delighted that Grayshott Primary School is providing not just the venue but the child-star too.”

A few tickets at £25 are still available on 01428 606666; in person at Blaze House Art Grayshott; or online at www.grayshottconcerts.co.uk