A SCHOOL is staging one of the world’s best-known musicals as part of a farewell tribute to a long-standing head teacher.

Pupils at Abberley Hall School in Great Witley are starring in their own version of the classic Broadway show West Side Story.

The production was the choice of John Walker, who will be retiring as head teacher of the school at the end of this academic year after 18 years’ service.

“I have always loved the passion and music of West Side Story so when asked to select which should be our annual senior school production, it was an easy choice,” said Mr Walker.

The show, which originally opened on Broadway in 1957, is loosely based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

The story follows the tension and rivalry between two feuding gangs from contrasting cultures and backgrounds.

All 12 and 13-year-old pupils at the school either performed on stage or worked on production.

“It is a spectacular production and the children have worked exceptionally hard to make it a success for their headmaster," said Clare Eynon, head of drama at Abberley Hall who directed the show.

“They have been rehearsing for several months and they are putting on a great production with wonderful costumes.