THE Towngate theatre is this week transported to the Fifties as the Essex Group present West Side Story, Leonard Bernstein’s classic reworking of Romeo and Juliet, set in the gang-ravaged back alleys and sidewalks of the Big Apple.

Having performed in this show twice, I can thoroughly recommend it to those who may not have seen either the stage or film version.

It features a cracking score with Bernstein’s punchy songs and wonderful melodies capturing the mood of the era. With lyrics by Stephen Sondheim you can expect great humour along with touching romantic numbers.

The Towngate is in St Martin’s Square, Basildon. Westside Story is on until Saturday. Call 01376 567677.

If you are after something lighter, dig out your ra-ra skirt and leg warmers and snood, and head to the Thameside, in Grays, and catch Thameside Musical Society in Back to 80s.

It features the hit songs of the decade such as Footloose and Michael Jackson’s the Man in the Mirror, which in the wake of his death will have an added poignancy.

The story centres around the final year at an American high school in the Eighties. The show is on until Saturday. Call 0845 3005264 Finally, a casting call from Leigh Operatic Society which are staging Andrew Lloyd Webber’ the Likes of Us at the Palace Theatre, London Road, Westcliff, from October 21-24 .

The musical tells the story of philanthropist Dr Barnardo. With an Oliver-like score, the show is fun and your child could be part of it!

The company is after boys and girls, aged between six and 13, with some experience of singing, acting and dancing.

The maximum height is 5ft 4ins and all males must have unbroken voices.

Go to the Cliffs Pavilion at 9am on Sunday, July 19. Audition workshops begin at 10am at a cost of £5.

If you’re treading the boards, drop me an e-mail on threelancetheatre@hotmail.co.uk DAVID BREEN