"Born and bred in Aberystwyth, I am thrilled to be back in the arts centre for another summer season.

I have just finished an exciting first year at Bird College of Dance and Theatre Performance in London, and have come home this summer to work as part of the cast of West Side Story.

In the past I have appeared in numerous summer seasons including Oliver!, Annie, The Sound of Music, and Fiddler on the Roof.

With West Side Story being one of my favourite musicals, full of extraordinary music, I am delighted to be part of the cast.

The concept for West Side Story came from the American choreographer Jerome Robbins and is based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, set in the down-town slums of New York.

The story takes us through the passionate love affair between Tony, who is trying to break away from his gang the Jets, and Maria, the sister of the leader of the rivals, the Sharks.

This year's cast is filled with talent, and there is such an enormous amount of energy and support for one another. With renowned theatre director Michael Bogdanov giving wonderful direction, musical director Michael Morwood making sure every note is in place, and choreographer Anthony Williams portraying every emotion through his fantastic routines, this show is not one to miss out on!

Laura Clements portrays the role of Maria beautifully, with such innocence and grace, singing with ease. The role of Tony is played by Richard Munday who will "take you away, take you far, far away" with his tremendous singing and love for Maria. Whilst James Crowley (Riff) powerfully leads his gang, showing no fear, and Sam Taylor-Martin (Anita) clearly showing the strength of her character with passion and confidence.

The rehearsal period is coming to an end, after three and a half weeks of working hard for long hours- singing our hearts out and dancing until our muscles ache.

Practising and perfecting every move, action, song, harmony and dialogue that has to be done! It has been vital for us all to help and support one and other, and that is exactly what has happened.

I have had a fantastic time already- working with marvellous people, learning a lot and gaining experience.

Working hard for something that I love and being around others who share the same love and passion for the job is amazing.

Not only is this year's summer season somethig special, but it is also a special year for West Side Story. This is the 50th anniversary of the show, and it is great that we get to celebrate that by performing it this summer.

I hope that you enjoy the show as much as I have enjoyed being a part of it!

Article by Charlotte Anne Griffiths from Aberystwyth