Bellshill youngster lands role in Glasgow gangland film

Oct 20 2011 by Leona Greenan, Hamilton Advertiser

A LANARKSHIRE boy has landed a key role in a new feature film about the life and times of a notorious Glasgow gangland figure.

Eleven-year-old Michael Higgins, of Rosehall estate, Bellshill, will play the part of young Johnny -the childhood best friend of renowned gangster Paul Ferris, in an upcoming feature film of his life.

The young musical theatre student, who attends at the prestigious Glasgow Academy Musical Theatre Arts (GAMTA), will travel to the Three Mills Studio in London next month to start filming for the role.

The film, called The Wee Man, will chart the early life of Ferris following his rise from the tough Blackhill estate in Glasgow to become one of the city's most feared gangsters.

Michaels mum Karina is delighted with his success in landing the role. She said: Michael is absolutely thrilled to get the part in The Wee Man.

He had to go through several rounds of auditions before the producers chose him so it was very tense for us all but worth the wait, he can't wait to start filming. He was put forward for the part by his Theatre School, GAMTA and their Actors Agency GTA. The whole team there have been great and very supportive towards Michael. He's building up a great CV already even though he's only 11 I'm feeling very proud indeed. We are all looking forward to seeing Michael on the big screen.

Sharon Graham of GAMTA added: Everyone at the school is absolutely thrilled for Michael. He is a fantastic student and were all very proud of this achievement.

Although only 11, Michael has already appeared in numerous productions in Glasgow, as well as a leading role in panto in the SECC in 2009. In the GAMTA production of 2010 Michael also played the role of Tiny Tam in McScrooge. He is also regularly heard as a voice over actor on many radio adverts throughout Scotland. He is a talented young man.

The film is produced by Carnaby International who have many feature films to their name including the hit movie Rise of the Footsoldier and the comedy-horror Doghouse.