YORK LGBT Forum are proud to present Bring On Tomorrow, a new theatrical experience penned by York writer and director Steven Clark, at York Barbican on Sunday at 7pm.

"The show takes the audience on an emotional journey through a history of LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) landmark points and raises awareness on topics such as homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and hate crime through songs from West End and Broadway shows," says Steven. "The characters are played by a cast of 22 York singers, backed by a 32-piece orchestra under the helm of Ben Papworth, the York musical director who's now working in London's West End."

Clark invites Sunday's audience to "let yourself be guided through the Second World War; the Stonewall Riots; the birth of Pride; Lesbian and Gays Support the Miners; HIV in the 1980s; the issues faced when Ageing Without Children, and modern-day issues we still face, such as equality, same sex marriage and Chechnya".

Presented by Clark, Papworth and True Colours Theatre, in association with York LGBT Forum and York Barbican, Bring On Tomorrow is a "unique story of love, heartbreak, self-discovery, loss and awareness, bringing a community together to celebrate individuality, diversity and equality".

This "theatrical event of the LGBT calendar year" is set to a backdrop of songs from West End and Broadway musicals such as Love Never Dies; The King And I; Soho Cinders; Blood Brothers; Imagine This; Jeckyl & Hyde; Les Miserables, Titanic; Carousel; Chess and Taboo.

Selections from Sister Act; Mrs Henderson Presents; Anastasia; Finding Neverland; Rent; Bonnie & Clyde; Gypsy; Catch Me If You Can; Peter Pan; Hairspray; Little Women and La Cage Aux Folles feature too.

Sunday's show will be narrated by Mr Gay Europe 2017, Matt Rood, Mr Gay Scotland 2017, Steven Whyte, HIV activist and Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners founder Jonathan Blake, and the special guest act will be York singer-songwriter Beth McCarthy.

"This is an event for everyone to enjoy music from the musicals but learn some LGBT history at the same time, as we raise the bar to encourage equality and diversity in York," says Steven. "Remember, 'Don't Hide Your Heart', the York LGBT Forum are here to support."

Tickets cost £15, with VIP packages available at £25 for prime front seating, a Meet & Greet, private bar area and a signed souvenir brochure, on 0844 854 2757, at yorkbarbican.co.uk or in person from the Barbican box office.

Charles Hutchinson