Young Robyn McKie, at just 12-years-old, has won herself the young female lead role of ‘Clara’ in this years Scottish Ballet’s Christmas production of The Nutcracker.

After closed auditions with nearly 100 selected pupils from the Dance School of Scotland and Scottish Ballet associates programme held last weekend, Robyn was cast in the role, described as “the ultimate dream role for any young aspiring dancer” and “gateway to a promising career”.

Her mum, who is local dance teacher Jayne Arthur, and husband Scott McKie, expressed their joy speaking to the Barrhead News this week, saying: “We are absolutely thrilled and extremely proud of Robyn and her fantastic achievement.

“When Robyn received the great news there were many tears of joy, what an honour it will be for Robyn to perform with our national ballet company of Scotland in this star role especially in Peter Darrells version of the famous ballet which is completely seen from a child’s eye.” Robyn, a former Cross Arthurlie primary school pupil and sister to younger brother Blair, 9, is in her second year training at The Dance School of Scotland in Knightswood under the wing of former Scottish ballet artistic director Kenn Burke.

Proud mum Jyane continued: “Robyn has had a fantastic first year training at the prestigious dance school which has created many opportunities and has led her to perform at large events and venues throughout last year including the Royal Concert Hall twice.” The Nutcracker will commence its festive run this year in December at the iconic Festival Theatre before coming to the Theatre Royal, Glasgow in January of the new year.

Jayne continued: “No one deserves this more than Robyn. Apart from being talented, Robyn is completely committed and dedicated to her dancing which she just loves. All her family and friends are busting with pride and looking forward to many trips to Edinburgh and Glasgow to support her.”