Local theatre group X-Entricity are set to present West Side Story at The Courtyard next month.

The Bernstein/Sondheim update on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet tells the tale of two young lovers who are caught between warring gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals in Broadway history.

The show has been one of director Steve Liddle’s favourites, since he was a cast member himself – some 16 years ago. Steve said “I am thrilled to be working not only with an incredible cast, and amazing choreographer, Sarah-Jane Matthews, but also with musical director Jack Campey, who played Gavroche for X-entricity in Les Miserables – in 2005”.

Another familiar face from that original production of West Side Story is Ben Abbott, who returns to play Doc – alongside son Lucas, and daughter Immi proving that X-Entricity really is one big family.

West Side Story matches stunning choreography with iconic songs – including Maria, America, Tonight and I Feel Pretty. The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets, as Romeo and Juliet is transported to 1950s Manhattan.

The performance on Saturday, June 29 will be audio described and a Touch Tour is available for those with tickets to the audio described performance to book onto for free. Touch Tours give those with visual impairments an opportunity to get close to the set, costumes and props used in the show.

West Side Story will be in The Courtyard’s Main House from Tuesday, June 25 to Saturday, June 29 at 7.30pm (with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm). To book, call the box office on 01432 340555 or visit courtyard.org.uk.