Fife teenager Aaron MacGregor wins prestigious West End musical theatre competition

A Fife teenager has spoken of his dreams of stage stardom after winning a prestigious youth competition.

Aaron MacGregor, 14, has loved all things musical theater from a young age, having starred in Oliver at the Edinburgh Fringe and now performing in productions across the country

Last month, the Crossgates schoolboy achieved his biggest success to date: winning the prestigious West End Calling competition in the 8-16 age category.

Aaron told STV News: “It involved a few different rounds, it started in Edinburgh, we went to Manchester for the semi-finals and then the grand final in London.

“It involves singing and performing and judging whether you can put it all together and be the best performer in every way.”

Judged by four leading industry professionals including Freddie King, Emma Kingston, Jodie Steele and Lauren Drew, Aaron received a standing ovation from the judges after performing Michael In The Bathroom's 'Be More Chill'.

The judges were reportedly left speechless after his performance, with one telling Aaron “Broadway for you!”

“I really didn’t expect to do that (win the final),” Aaron said. “I was falling and I was pretty shocked to be there.”

The teenager was encouraged by his devoted parents, who worked hard to take their son across the country to follow his passion.

Aaron's mother Ashley said: “We knew he would do pretty well.

“To win it? No, we didn't know he was going to win it.

“A boy from Scotland, the only Scot to reach the final – and then he goes and wins the whole thing. Amazing ! But I'm so, so proud of him. »

Judge Lauren Drew thinks Aaron has a very bright future and hopes to one day work with him in the West End.

She said: “It was when he started singing that it was kind of undeniable.

“We all looked at each other and instantly said, 'Well, that's our winner.'

Aaron has big ambitions to make it in musical theater, but he's determined not to move too quickly.

Looking ahead, he said: “In the next few years I'm just looking to get my National 5s and a few Highers at high school.

“And then hopefully go to university in London to do some musical theater classes and get a few jobs in London.” »