Published: Tuesday, 27th July, 2010 1:04pm

FAME - Remember their name!

Talented teenagers Liam and Kyle Blain, from Melrose, led a cast of budding young actors and musicians from the Borders in the fifth Stage Experience production at the Playhouse in Edinburgh at the weekend.

It was the first time many of them had performed on the big stage.

However, despite only having two weeks to rehearse for the show, the students Hard Work paid off and they left the audience in the 3000 capacity theatre Dancing on the Sidewalk following their three sell-out performances.

A total of 140 youngsters from throughout Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians and Borders took part in the production of Fame.

It told the story of a group of students and their quest for success at New York City's High School of Performing Arts, from their auditions to graduation ceremony, and boasted phenomenal dance routines and unforgettable songs, including the legendary hit Fame.

Liam Blain, 17, a pupil at Earlston High School, starred as drama teacher Mr Meyers. The teenager, who has previously performed with Galashiels Amateur Operatic Society and played the part of Paul in CITV's Butterfingers, has played in three previous Stage Experiences - Oliver!, High School Musical and Annie, as well as many school productions including Anything Goes and Buddy.

Meanwhile, Kyle Blain, also 17 and in his sixth year at Earlston High School, played the part of European music teacher Mr Sheinkopf, with an accent to match his performance - his fourth Stage Experience - which was impressive.

Both brothers play in Melrose Pipe Band and with Scottish Borders Youth Orchestra.

Other performers from the region included Lyndsey McFarlane, Amy Christison, Katie Lynch, Louise Davies, Shannon Allan, and Laurie Coburn, who all starred in the Chorus of the musical.

Jo Beale, Stage Experience Co-ordinator and deputy general manager, said: "We strongly believe that there are few chances to see this much talent and this much energy, fun and enthusiasm in one performance and we are very proud of what everyone has achieved."

The theatre once again opened its doors to the region's budding young actors, musicians and technicians, for The Playhouse Stage Experience - a two week theatrical workshop for young people aged 10-21 years.

It was a rare opportunity for the local youngsters to work closely with a team of theatre professionals in the UK's largest theatre and a fantastic opportunity for the audience to see the stars of the future!

Jo added: "Everyone has worked extremely hard over the past two weeks to bring this production to life and I'm sure you will agree they have done a superb job."