Annie bridges age gap in talent

Although 16 years apart, Bella Thomas of Mortdale and Rachel Thomas of Illawong (not related) were taught by Michelle Harper in year 2 when they were seven.

Mrs Harper was among the first to notice their talents: Rachel's in 1995 and Bella's in 2011.

She encouraged the girls to try their hand at musical theatre and both scored the role of Molly in productions of Annie as their first role on stage.

Now Annie will cast them on stage together.

Bella will share the lead role of Annie with Sian Fuller, and Rachel will play one of the Boylan sisters, alongside her co-stars from the tribute band The Starliners.

Mrs Harper said it was during a lesson called "Spotlight News" that she first witnessed their flair for performance.

"They both have an incredible vocal ability, strength in their voices and the confidence and ability to get up and perform in front of an audience," Mrs Harper said.

"They are both so versatile."

Rachel, 26, has kept in contact with the second grade teacher who has followed her career in amateur theatre and The Starliners.

"If Michelle hadn't encouraged me it would have taken me a lot longer to realise my love for performing, or it might not have happened at all," she said.

For 11-year-old Bella, Annie is her first production in a leading role and she credits much of her confidence to her teacher.

"Before, I was really shy, and then she taught me and I wasn't shy any more."

Annie opens in September; details: mirandamusicalsociety.com.au