URMSTON star Danielle Hope, who in 2010 won the BBC One competition Over the Rainbow to play Dorothy in Wizard of Oz, is back in town.

Now 24, she will play Sandy in Grease at the Palace Theatre, Manchester from March 10 – 25.

Born and brought up in Ashfield Road, she attended Highfield Primary School where her very first stage appearance was in Grease.

“I played Rizzo. I was really shy and that is where I got my confidence.”

She studied GCSE and A Level drama at her next school, Knutsford High, now Knutsford Academy, where she performed in several shows.

Her teacher was Helen Mayne, their head of performance. “She was very encouraging and supportive,” said Danielle, “She has seen every show I have been in. I talk to her most days.”

Before gaining fame, Danielle earned cash by working as a waitress at upmarket restaurant, Isinglass, in Flixton Road. She did a similar job at Manchester United where, coincidentally, her first audition for Over the Rainbow took place.

“There were thousands there,” she said.

She has enjoyed rehearsals. She said: “My character, Sandy is morally strong and not naïve. Even when she is all dressed up, she is still the same strong, independent woman who can stand up for herself.”

Danielle’s favourite song is You’re The One That I Want. “It’s an ensemble piece. Everyone is on stage and we are all dancing.,” she said.

Unlike many performers she enjoys touring. Grease will be her third tour.

“I like to see different parts of the country. The acoustics and stage sizes are different in every theatre. Some are 100 years old. Some are 10 years old.”

She added: “My family and people from my two schools have already booked to come.”.

• For tickets, contact atgtickets.com/Manchester