YORK Light Youth brings us West Side Story, the Bernstein and Sondheim adaptation of Shakespeare’s romantic tragedy Romeo And Juliet, retold as a teenage romance amid the racial tension of 1950s' New York.

Having seen the group’s performance of Cats last November, I was looking forward to seeing what the young cast would bring to another much beloved musical, especially one centred on darker, more challenging themes.

From start to finish, the entire cast are electrifying. From the dancing, to the singing, to the acting, nowhere are these young performers found wanting, once again demonstrating their enthusiasm and talents with gusto.

Watching the Jets and the Sharks tear it up on stage is enthralling, with Finn East and Jack Porter in particular stealing scenes as the leaders of the rival gangs, Riff and Bernardo. Amelia Cook’s Anita – Bernardo's girl – is also outstanding, even maintaining her Puerto Rican accent throughout her songs.

However, the focus of a love story must fall on the lovers themselves. Rob Fisher gives an affecting and sincere turn as Tony, moving effortlessly between star-crossed romantic and desperate peacemaker, while Catherine Brough (alternating her role with Beth Winteringham) dominates as Maria with powerful vocals and an emotional rollercoaster of a performance. Even knowing how this tragedy must ultimately play out, you still find yourself rooting for this romance against impossible odds.

York Light Youth delivers a stunning and spectacular show with this story of love and hatred. Evocative, provocative and tragic, be sure to catch this one before it’s gone.

West Side Story, York Light Youth, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, Wednesday to Saturday, 7.30pm plus 2.30pm Saturday matinee. Box office: 01904 501935 or at josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk