A 21-YEAR-OLD who moved from a small seaside town to the fast-paced city of New York is about to star in the off-Broadway production of Trainspotting Live.

Tom Chandler, of Penarth, is now living it all in the big apple after moving there three years ago to study in the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Within weeks of the student graduating this year, he has now been cast in the stage adaptation of hit-novel Trainspotting by Irvine Welsh.

Mr Chandler will play the character Francis Franco Begbie - referred to mainly as Begbie - with the play hitting Broadway on July 15.

The 21-year-old spoke to the Penarth Times about how he feels about landing the role and how he first got into acting.

Mr Chandler said: "It’s an iconic role and an incredible challenge. It’s one of those parts that demands you to stretch yourself as an actor. Due to the subject matter, the play requires great relationship work, respect and trust between actors is paramount, as we are dealing with intense physical violence and verbal abuse."

The former Stanwell School student said he first got into acting at the school, but after being encouraged to join Cardiff group The Workshop Mr Chandler got into writing scripts and being involved in and working on short films.

Since his move to the hectic capital city of America, Mr Chandler said he loves the "hustle and bustle" of New York, but also said he does miss his home town of Penarth.

"New York is incredible; it really is non-stop, fast paced, and bursting with energy," he said.

"One of the most exciting aspects is the cultural diversity. You are surrounded by food, drink and art from all over the world.

"Although, while I do love it here, I do miss the sound of waves crashing down Lavernock point, and the ragged cliffs of South Wales will always be home."

Trainspotting Live previews begin today (July 5), with the show starting officially on July 15 until August 25.

The 21-year-old has also starred in the play Your Alice, which comes to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August.