A talented north Suffolk teenager's dreams of going to a theatre school graced by Oscar winner actress Kate Winslet is taking a leap forward.

Mariella Mazzilli, of Oulton Broad, near Lowestoft, has gained a chance to study performing arts at the Redroofs Theatre School from September.

However Mariella's family need to raise �40,000 so the 15-year-old can get the chance to hone her singing, dancing and acting skills at the Berkshire-based school.

To help Mariella achieve her dream her parents Joe and Karen have set up a 'Raise it to the Roofs' appeal and have organised what they hope is the first of many fund-raising events.

On Saturday, April 21 a ladies' night will be held at Uplands Community Centre in Hollow Grove Way in Carlton Colville between 7pm and 9.30pm.

The free-to-enter night will have stalls with a variety of home ware, jewellery cosmetics and crafts and also a raffle and a performance by Dezine, girl group featuring Mariella.

Mariella, who goes to Notre Dame High School in Norwich, said: 'I can't wait and I hope many people will join us on this fun night. Redroofs Theatre School is a few steps away – it is all becoming a reality.'

Mariella performs for Gorleston-based DPA and Pakefield Academy of Performing Arts and appeared at the Lowestoft's Marina Theatre and Great Yarmouth's Hippodrome.

As well as Kate Winslet, Eastenders actress Lucy Benjamin, My Family actor Kris Marshall and Tracy Beaker star Dani Harmer went to Redroofs.

Anyone interested in Mariella's appeal can email raiseittotheroofs@gmail.com or search for Raise it to the roofs on Facebook.

anthony.carroll@archant.co.uk