Musicals mark anniversary

The classic shows West Side Story and Thoroughly Modern Millie will be performed at the open air theatre throughout the summer.

Opening the 2016 season is the memorable musical West Side Story, based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It runs from Wednesday, June 1, to Sunday, July 17.

The story is transported to 1950s New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs; the American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks.

The multiple award-winning musical has some of the most famous musical hits of all time including Somewhere, Maria, America, I Feel Pretty and Tonight.

The show will also feature high energy dance numbers and a comedic, yet moving love story with a powerful plot that has to points to make about modern day life.

The second production is the winner of no less than six Tony awards, including Best Musical. Thoroughly Modern Millie runs from Tuesday, August 16, to Sunday, September 11.

Based on the 1967 film of the same name, this bright, funny and charming musical comedy includes such memorable numbers as How the Other Half Lives, Not for the Life of Me, Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life and the title song Thoroughly Modern Millie.

It’s 1922, and small-town girl Millie Dillmount has just arrived in New York City, ready to make her dreams come true. Millie’s plan is simple; find a job as a secretary for an eligible bachelor, and then marry him.

It doesn’t take long, however, for Millie’s “thoroughly modern” plan to go awry.

Kilworth House Theatre continues to go from strength to strength since opening in 2007. Attracting an audience of almost 55,000 last year, the theatre continues to receive huge critical acclaim from its audiences and press alike and was recognised in the national press as one of the five best outdoor theatres in the UK alongside Regents Park, Shakespeare’s Globe and the Minack Theatre.

Tickets for both productions are priced from £31 - £38 and can be booked through the theatre box office on 01858 881939 between 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. Alternatively visit www.
kilworthhousetheatre.co.uk.