THE Upstagers Academy are set to bring a slice of New York to The King’s Hall stage in Ilkley for their first ever full Academy Spring production of the pint sized, pinstriped classic, Bugsy Malone. There will be a matinee and evening performance on Saturday,April 28.

This tongue in cheek tribute to the gangster films of the 1930s and 40s is a masterclass in slap stick musical comedy. It is written by Alan Parker and Paul Williams and is based on the 1976 hit film of the same name that is famous for using a full cast of child actors.

Based in New York in the 1920’s prohibition era, it follows the rivalry of two half witted street gangs and the washed up, well intentioned, one time boxer, Bugsy Malone, who steps in to take control of Fat Sam’s gang and give Dandy Dan and his boys what they’ve got coming. Add the complications of Bugsy being smitten by the singer Blousey Brown, having to avoid the attentions of Fat Sam’s seductive moll, Tallulah and the threat of Dandy Dan and his modern weapon, the splurge gun and you can be sure that Bugsy’s journey will not be straight forward! The show premiered in London’s West End in 1983 featuring Catherine Zeta Jones and ran for over 300 performances. It has been revived several times, most recently in 2016 where the production received an Olivier nomination. With memorable numbers such as Fat Sam’s Grand Slam, My Name is Tallulah and So You Want to Be A Boxer the score reflects the period brilliantly and maintains an energy that holds the audience.

The director of the show, Tracie Booth said: “It has been such an exciting project to be involved in. We recognised the quality of young performers coming through the Academy at Upstagers and wanted to give them an opportunity to show what they can do on a big stage. Bugsy Malone seemed like such a good choice given the fact that the original film only used child actors. I’d urge everyone to come along to support our local performers and have a great time whilst doing so. We have VIP tables in the auditorium to give the show a New York speakeasy feel and the cast will be mingling with the audience during the show so they will feel a real part of the fun. It is also an exciting collaboration with Ilkley Grammar School who are providing the live music for the show. The IGS Head of Music, Victoria Chapman, has put together a fantastic show band who are sounding brilliant. We also wouldn’t have been able to do this without the support of Room to Grow who have generously sponsored the show. They recognise the huge benefits that the kids get from being involved in the performing arts and we are incredibly grateful for their help.”

Tickets for Bugsy Malone are available on the Upstagers website www.upstagers.org.uk/boxoffice, by calling 0333 666 3366 or by calling the local box office on 01943 607944 (restricted hours apply).