Norwich theatre prepares to take audiences on an out-of-this-world musical adventure

The Return to the Forbidden Planet dress rehearsal at the Maddermarket Theatre. Science Officer, left, played by Julie Hewitt; the Robot Ariel, played by Robin Watson; and Prospero, John Mangan. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2016)

Return to the Forbidden Planet is the city theatre's latest production, with the first performance due to take off into outer space tonight and the show running until July 30.

The venue's stage has been transformed into a space station for the classic musical written by Bob Carlton which puts an intergalactic twist on Shakespeare's The Tempest and mixes in an array of hits. Terry Molloy, who played mad scientist Davros in Doctor Who, is also making an on-screen cameo appearance in the show.

Director Peter Beck said it had been great fun creating the sci-fi production which aimed to get the audience dancing in the aisles with songs such as Great Balls of Fire and Shake, Rattle and Roll.

'You get these three three elements in the show - obviously Shakespeare's The Tempest and references to other Shakespeare plays, you get the rock and roll songs from the 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s and then you get the Sci-fi,' he said.

The Return to the Forbidden Planet dress rehearsal at the Maddermarket Theatre. Director Peter Beck, centre, with Jen Alexander, left, as the Navigation Officer, and Katherine Evans as the Ensign. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2016)

'It's great for Whovians and Trekkies. If you like Lost in Space, this will be right up your street. If you like jukebox musicals, it's stuffed full of rock and roll songs too. It's very, very funny, very uplifting. It will have you dancing in the aisles. Dancing is positively encouraged!'

The show runs until July 30. To book tickets, call 01603 620917 or visit www.maddermarket.co.uk