Twain-Based Musical 'Grains of Sand' Opens July 24

A new musical, A Million Grains of Sand, opens on 24th July 2007 at The Castle Theatre, Wellingborough, written by Northamptonshire writer, Gareth Peter Dicks.  "Performed by Broadway School of Performing Arts, this powerful musical promises to be a thrilling and memorable new story of self discovery. Memorable music teamed with an exciting story and intriguing characters make this one of the hottest shows of the summer," state press notes.

"As the ancient sun rises on the new day, two children are born.  One, the Princess of Egypt, the other born into poverty and violence.  They grow up unaware of the other, until, in a chance meeting, their two worlds collide in a tale of drama, murder, mistaken identity and love. A meeting that could change the destiny of a nation!"

"Based on Mark Twain's The Prince & The Pauper, this exciting new musical shapes its story on the sands of Ancient Egypt, a time when life was ruled by the hand of the Gods. It charts the story of two very remarkable girls in very remarkable times showing how power and corruption can blind and lead the heart.

The young cast have been rehearsing since January and working hard to learn the complex music and challenging script.  With a range of musical styles and harmonies, this production has really been pushing the limits of the cast, making this a most exhilarating project.  With sung dialogue, songs, movement and scripted scenes, it has been a rare venture for a young cast to be involved with."

Gareth Dicks comments on the progress.  "I feel there is nothing more complex than getting a new musical to the stage.  It is such a collaborative progress and difficult to get all elements right so they marry to each other.  It has been a long and hard journey but this has been one of the most thrilling processes I have been involved in.  The passion and dedication of the cast and creative team has been touching and I sincerely hope they are as thrilled with the outcome as I am."

Gareth Peter Dicks has been writing for the stage for many years, staging shows including the fantasy musical; The Village in the Valley and Escape, a musical love story. 

A Million Grains of Sand plays The Castle, Wellingborough on Tuesday, 24th July and Wednesday 25th July at 2 PM and 7:30 PM. For tickets, visit www.thecastle.org.uk or call 01933 270 007.  Visit www.myspace.com/garethpeterdicks for more information.

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