BLACK Country stage stars will be bringing to life tragic love story West Side Story in Stourbridge next month.

The Tab Operatic Society will be staging the much-loved musical – a modern-day take on Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet – at Stourbridge Town Hall from Tuesday March 6 to Saturday March 10.

Set in New York, the show explores the themes of cultural differences and racial prejudice as Tony - a former member of the American Jets street gang – falls in love with Maria whose brother Bernardo leads rival gang the Puerto Rican Sharks.

Directed by husband and wife team Leon and Rachel Davies with musical direction from Tom Porter – the production stars Dan Smith as Tony, Beth Berwick-Lowe as Maria, Grant Chapman as Riff – leader of the Jets – and Mitchell Bastable takes on the role of Bernardo.

Featuring a musical score by Leonard Bernstein – it includes popular musical numbers Maria, Tonight, I have a love, Somewhere and more.

Evening shows start at 7.30pm and there will also be a Saturday matinee performance starting at 2pm

Tickets cost £16/17 for evenings and £13 for the matinee.

To book or for more details contact production secretary Diane Bate on 07722 417962.