Hereford Musical Theatre Company, leading Herefordshire amateur performing society, will be staging the latest version of Half a Sixpence entitled Kipps, based on the novel of the same name by

H. G. Wells in what will be the joint amateur world premiere.

This modern re-make of the original was written by Downton Abbey's creator Julian Fellowes! After a successful run on the West End in 2016-17, the rights were released to amateur companies this summer, and HMTC have snapped up the chance to take this classic musical on!

HMTC’s Director Nigel Holloway, who is returning to the director's chair after a 15-year break, commented, “It was a no brainer, I saw it in the West End and loved the re-telling! The script is witty, the score charming and the dancing delightful!”

Nigel is joined by Jenni Axtell as musical director and Rebecca White as choreographer.

And, like the musical itself which has been re-energised for the modern day audience, the long-established HMTC is being led by new young talent that has come up from the company's Youth Group.

The title role of Kipps, who spends the majority of time on stage and even in one scene has a costume change live on stage, is being played by 16-year-old Charlie Plumridge who left Whitecross High School at the end of the summer, and has gone on to study performing arts at Hereford College of Arts.

“It is a massive challenge but I’m more than ready!” says Charlie, adding that he's gone the extra mile as he's dedicated himself to the role: “I’ve even learnt to play the banjo!”

At Charlie’s side are fellow graduates of the youth company, Riley Gummerson, Meg Reid and Thomas Phillips who, as well as long-standing member Sarah Rowberry, support him as shopkeeping apprentices training in Shelfords Drapers. It is there that friendships are formed but when Kipps comes into money unexpectedly, he leaves his childhood sweetheart Ann (played by HMTC stalwart Sam Stokes) behind. But does he let money change him for good? You’ll have to book a seat to find out!

With catchy musical numbers including If the Rain's Got to Fall, Pick Out a Simple Tune and the unforgettable Flash Bang Wallop, What a Picture, Kipps offers audiences a feel-good show filled with show-stopping numbers.

Kipps - The New Half a Sixpence runs from Tuesday, November 5 to Saturday, November 9 at The Courtyard. To book, call the box office on 01432 340555 or visit courtyard.org.uk