One of the best-loved musicals of all time, West Side Story, is being brought to the Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds next month.

East Anglian Daily Times: Jonathan Lodge, as Tony, and Lucy Allen, as MariaJonathan Lodge, as Tony, and Lucy Allen, as Maria (Image: Archant)

The Irving Stage Company, an amateur company based in Bury, is performing the musical there from November 3 to 7.

The director and choreographer is Sian Couture and the musical director for the cast, and the 18-piece live orchestra, is Mark Jefferson.

Ms Couture said: “West Side Story is for many people their favourite musical, with a wonderful score and lyrics, and a tragic love story at its heart.

“It demands passion and commitment from performers, and I am glad to say that our talented cast has risen to the challenge with true

professionalism.

“We are so looking forward to returning to the beautiful Theatre Royal and showing the audience all that we have achieved.”

The star roles of Tony and Maria are played by Jonathan Lodge and Lucy Allen.

Mr Lodge, who was brought up in Bury, was professionally trained at Guildford School of Acting and is now head of drama at King Edward VI School.

Ms Allen is also professionally trained having completed a three-year musical theatre diploma at the Italia Conti Academy. She works at the Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich.

Tickets for West Side Story are available from the box office on 01284 769505 or online at www.theatreroyal.org