Performer powering on

The award was in recognition of her involvement in 26 shows since joining the company in April, 2006, when as a seven-year-old she sang her first solo, Rubber Ducky.

Since then Power has played several leading roles or added her talents to the ensemble in many other shows, "providing a fine example to youngsters coming behind", according to Primadonna director Carole Dhu.

"Two rehearsals a week for almost 10 years is an enormous commitment, translating into thousands of hours of rehearsal and the troupe has benefited greatly from having Cassie on board," she said.

Since opening its doors in 2003, more than 100 youngsters have passed through Primadonna's ranks.

"The average stay of most participants is around six or seven years, so although this makes for a slow turnover for children on the waiting list, it means the company runs as a well-oiled machine," Dhu said.