A hit musical inspired by a true story has arrived at Norwich Theatre Royal and it would be a crime to miss it.

Bonnie & Clyde is set in Texas during the Great Depression and it follows aspiring actress Bonnie Parker who meets criminal Clyde Barrow and falls for him as well as his lifestyle.

The pair became notorious outlaws and they were responsible for robberies and murders across America.

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Eastern Daily Press: Katie Tonkinson and Alex James-Hatton as Bonnie & Clyde Picture: Denise BradleyKatie Tonkinson and Alex James-Hatton as Bonnie & Clyde Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: free)

It is on its first UK and Ireland tour direct from London's West End, where it was named 'Best New Musical' at the WhatsOnStage Awards 2023.

It stars Katie Tonkinson and Alex James-Hatton in the title roles and Clyde's brother Buck and sister-in-law Blanche are played by Sam Ferriday and Catherine Tyldesley, respectively. 

Tyldesley is best known for playing Eva Price in Coronation Street from 2011 to 2018 and this marks her musical theatre debut.

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Eastern Daily Press: Sam Ferriday and Catherine Tyldesley as Buck and Blanche Picture: Denise BradleySam Ferriday and Catherine Tyldesley as Buck and Blanche Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

She said: "Bonnie & Clyde is very different from Coronation Street, but there is still quite a bit of catfighting.

"Many of my favourite projects have been period dramas as I find the research side of things fascinating, which I have loved doing for this role.  

"This show ticks every box with true crime, edge-of-your-seat entertainment and a love story - every song is also a corker." 

Speaking about her first impressions of Norwich, she added: "It is my first time here and it looks so gorgeous and quaint."

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Eastern Daily Press: Katie Tonkinson, Alex James-Hatton, Sam Ferriday and Catherine Tyldesley as Bonnie, Clyde, Buck and Blanche Picture: Denise BradleyKatie Tonkinson, Alex James-Hatton, Sam Ferriday and Catherine Tyldesley as Bonnie, Clyde, Buck and Blanche Picture: Denise Bradley (Image: Newsquest)

Her co-star Tonkinson will be able to give her some recommendations of places to visit as she is based in nearby Swardeston.

She said: "I have been to the Theatre Royal a few times but I have never performed there so it is very exciting.

"This is a dream role for me as I am such a big fan of the show and so many people are fascinated by the story." 

Bonnie & Clyde runs until March 16 - book tickets at norwichtheatre.org or call 01603 630000.