A LOCAL composer is set to bring his new creation to Basingstoke as ‘Tolkien’ opens later this month.

With music and lyrics crafted by former Bishop Challoner School and Queen Mary’s College student Joseph Purdue, this new musical looks at the life of perhaps the greatest fantasy writer of the 20th century J.R.R Tolkien.

The 23-year-old has also managed to attract West End singers, from shows such as Mary Poppins and High School Musical, to perform in the musical’s special debut shows at Central Studio in Queen Mary’s College. 

The story follows the writer’s life through his early days at school, the traumatic significance of World War One, his friendship with CS Lewis and finally his successes with The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. 

Joseph said: “It’s been a exciting couple of years writing this score and learning about this wonderful author.

“I’m very happy with the music and I believe it’s my finest work yet. I’ve been so lucky to record and work with such talented singers.

“They truly shine throughout this musical and I couldn’t ask for a better team. I would be most grateful to see you there supporting me in this ventures, as the next step is to take it to the London stage.” 

The performance of this musical will take place on Wednesday April 20 and

Thursday April 21 starting at 7.45pm. Tickets are available at Central Studio box office on 01256 418318 or on their website centralstudio.co.uk.

Visit josephpurdue.com/news.