TEENAGE vocal talent Ben Lewis will be hosting his second musical extravaganza at the Coronation Hall this August.

The 19-year-old, who has just completed his first year at the Guildford School of Acting, will be returning to Ulverston to perform Puttin' On The Ritz 2, on Saturday August 5.

The first instalment at the venue last April was deemed a huge success, with Ben's performance of some of the 20th and 21st centuries' most iconic musical hits raising more than £3,000 for St Mary's Hospice.

And this year he promises an equally impressive stage show, with a number of local performers joining him for the night.

He says: "I thoroughly enjoyed organising last year's event and audience feedback was all extremely positive - we were told that the production was of a standard that would be expected of a professional company, which was flattering.

"It was also fantastic to be able to raise such a substantial sum of money which has since stayed in the local area, and I really hope I can do the same for the hospice this year."

For this year’s production, Ben will be joined by Connor Wood, who has performed lead roles such as Marius in Walney Juniors' production of Les Miserables, and Georgie Buckland, who will be starting at the Musical Theatre at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland this September.

The trio will sing and dance their way through the musicals; shows ranging from favourites such as West Side Story and Chicago, through to modern hits like Dear Evan Hansen and Finding Neverland are to be featured.

Also appearing will be the Kreativ School of Dance – led by dancer and choreographer Lewis Campbell. The school has continued its tradition of success in local carnivals this year and the energy and talent will undoubtedly be there for all to see on the Coronation Hall stage.

Completing the line-up are the specially-formed Puttin’ On The Ritz 2 Show Choir, who, comprising local young performers from various societies and groups, have been working hard under the musical direction of Connor Wood and will be sure to impress with their tight ensemble sound.

Ben says that he has been looking forward to returning to the Coronation Hall, with this show being one of the highlights of his summer break from studying.

He says: "The Coro is an absolutely amazing place to perform and it's going to be a pleasure to be back there again - the venue has been a huge part of my life so far, really, and I'll never get sick of it.

"My first year at the Guildford School of Acting has been so enjoyable. It's been hectic at times, but to be in such a prestigious place and doing what I love to do day in day out, it never really feels like hard work - it's absolutely flown by though."

Puttin’ On The Ritz 2 takes place at the Coronation Hall, in Ulverston, on Saturday August 5. Doors open at 7pm, and tickets are available from the venue's box office priced £10 and £8, with all proceeds being donated to St Mary's Hospice.