The 17-year-old dancer, from South Shields, will perform in the Royal Variety Performance – after less than one term at one of the country's top dance schools.

The Laine Theatre Arts student does not know who he will be performing with, but the line-up includes Take That, Leona Lewis, Rihanna, Pussycat Dolls and Britain's Got Talent winner George Sampson.

He said: "I'm really excited, especially now I have found out who is in the line-up. It will be fantastic to meet everyone backstage – I can't wait."

Danny, from Whiteleas, is one of just eight dancers chosen to perform at the event, which Prince Charles will attend.

Mum Caren, who runs Lumsdale Theatre Arts in South Shields, added: "He will get to meet all the stars, line up and shake hands with Prince Charles, and go to the after-show party.

"The Take That choreographer came in, taught them a routine and then chose who he wanted.

"It's amazing that in his first term he's made it to the big stage – what he's thought of and wanted – it's like his dream has come true in such a short time of being there.

"We weren't able to get tickets so we'll be glued to the TV screen."

Rehearsals start on Monday, December 1, and Danny will be joined by fellow South Tynesider Michelle Smith, who is an understudy for the night.

The 16-year-old, from Harton, South Shields, is the youngest girl on the team.

Mum Linda said: "I'm chuffed to bits for her, and even though she may not get to go on stage, she will get to experience everything – working with the professional choreographers, meeting the stars and going to the after-show party.

"She's in seventh heaven at Laine and she says she finally feels like she's found her place."

Ms Lumsdale added: "It's very hard work, but they are learning so much and doing so well."

The Royal Variety Performance takes place on Thursday, December 11, at the London Palladium.

Other acts to perform on the night will include comedians Jimmy Carr, Peter Kay and Michael McIntyre; West End shows Zorro, Jersey Boys and The Lion King; and legends including Sir Cliff Richard and Brian May.