Gang warfare comes to High Road

By Sam Bevitt
Whether you’re a Shark or a Jet, a Maria or a Tony, an epic tale is currently in the works from Finchley Youth Theatre for the enjoyment of all. Their brand new production of teenage gang musical West Side Story is the premiere attraction so far this year.

This is the first time the High Road theatre has tackled musical theatre. Team leader Liz Sacre is working alongside experienced workshop practitioners and musicians to bring this epic story to life.
“Having the opportunity to perform is so important to young people,” said Liz. “It gives them confidence and develops their ability to work in a team.”

The impressive set houses a raised stage and an incredible array of scaffolded walkways, allowing the cast of 60 young performers to stalk above and hang down over the audience, creating the raw, gritty atmosphere essential to Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s masterpiece.

New linkup planned
FYT is a part of Barnet Youth and Connexions Service, which helps channel local youth creativity and aids them in discovering their future ambitions and goals.
 FYT plans to work in partnership with another youth theatre in Lewisham during 2009. Sacre’s hope is that the integration will be educational for both sets of children. “In essence, this move would be great way for young people to create new ties and friends with other kids from different backgrounds.”

This centre, modest as it may look on the outside, provides a wealth of creativity and opportunity on the inside, and certainly deserves the support of local people.
West Side Story is being performed at the Finchley Youth Theatre on East Finchley High Road from 2 - 5 April. To book tickets, call 020 8359 3540.

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