AN AMATEUR society are rehearsing for a new production which will bring a blend of music and passion to the stage of The Haymarket theatre next month.

BAOS (Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society) will perform West Side Story from Tuesday, March 8 to Saturday, March 12.

The show brings the modern day story of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet right up to date in Sondheim and Bernstein's musical masterpiece.

Two teenage street gangs from different ethnic backgrounds form the main cast, bringing to life the rivalry of the Jets and the Sharks.

As war builds between the two gangs, the Sharks from Puerto Rico are taunted by the Jets of New York.

Tension escalates between the two groups when Tony, played by Tom McCreavy, a Jet ready to leave the gang life behind, falls for the beautiful Maria, played by Lucy Killick, the sister of the Sharks' leader Bernardo.

The two young lovers try to find a way to be together despite living in a time of hate and ignorance.

Songs include America, Somewhere, Tonight, I Feel Pretty, One Hand, One Heart and Ket song.

Directed by Richard Cox and musically directed by Trevor Defford, the cast are currently rehearsing to bring passion and drama to Basingstoke audiences in a dance-heavy show, with choreography by BAOS and BAOS Limelight member Zoe Blackall.

Tickets are on sale now via the Anvil box office on 01256 844244 or via anvilarts.org.uk. Group discounts are available.