THE hit musical ‘West Side Story’ is coming to the stage in Tameside next year.
Hyde Musical Theatre Society is presenting Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s classic love story from March 29 to April 1.
Following their sell-out production of the Elvis juke box musical ‘All Shook Up’ earlier this year, Hyde Musical Theatre Society returns with the romantic and tragic musical.
Recently released in its second film adaptation by Steven Spielberg, ‘West Side Story’ takes the well-known Shakespeare play ‘Romeo & Juliet’ into the 1950s streets of New York.
It explores the fierce rivalry of gangs the Jets and the Sharks and the young, forbidden love between Tony and Maria, featuring songs such as Somewhere, America and I Feel Pretty.
Julie Wilkinson, Chair of Hyde Musical Society, said: “We chose this musical not only because is it one of the greats from the fantastic pairing of Bernstein and Sondheim, but it has themes that are so important in the current climate.
“It’s a tragic but beautiful story that teaches us to love without hate.
“The 2021 film was a massive hit, and there is still an appetite for this to be brought to the stage.”
The company was pulled from the stage during the dress rehearsals of their 2020 musical ‘All Shook Up’ due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but performed it more than two years later.
Hyde Musical Society celebrated its 80th year in 2020 and is hoping to bring theatre audiences back into their local theatres following the two years of closures.
Daniel Oliver-Grant, Director of this production of West Side Story, said: “I’m so excited to be working with Hyde Musical Society.
“Their last show ‘All Shook Up’ was brilliant, well received by audiences and had a phenomenal cast. I think ‘West Side Story’ can be even bigger and better.
“We’ve got a fantastic group of dancers and an incredible principal cast who I have no doubt will bring this much-loved musical to life.
“I’ve got big plans and some great ideas to make this production feel fresh, but keep the charm that audiences know and love.”
• Tickets cost £17 and are available from Sparks Theatre Management https://tinyurl.com/mp3c8htc or head to hydemusicalsociety.org.uk for more information.