Indesit help youth tread the boards

Youngsters in Peterborough will be putting on a special performance of West Side Story at the city’s Key Theatre next month.

The performance is supported by white goods company Indesit, who are working in partnership with Peterborough City Council, as part of their initiative to support the local community.

The young actors chose West Side Story because of the themes it tackles, including gang culture and knife crime.

Keiron Frost, age 15, who plays Tony in the performance said: “One of the great things about working in this production is meeting people and making new friends. Also, acting lets a person come out of their shell, and this has been evident throughout rehearsals where we have all become really close. I love acting and have really appreciated the teaching we’ve had from the professional teachers who have come on board.”

Imogen Kemp-Hunt, age 13, and who plays Maria added: “The show has really given all of us the chance to show our talents and it’s been great fun to be a part of it. It’s all been about different people coming together, working hard, and producing a brilliant show at the end. It’s also been great getting help from lots of professionals throughout rehearsals, whose guidance has been superb.”

The one-off matinee and evening performance of West Side Story will be held at the Key Theatre on 3 July.